Planning decisions are still taken by a committee even with a mayor (one man decisions would leave a mayor impossibly open to the possibility/accusations of bribery)

Agreed - a committee costs so much to bribe that it isn't worth trying. You run the risk of one of them being honest, too.

http://planningonline.bristol.gov.uk/online-applications/files/6B78EFD43C5794E0284782E43B21F176/pdf/12_01879_F-DAS_-_CHAPTER_D_-_DP_-_SCHEME_DESIGN_APPEARANCE_PART_2_OF_3-861536.pdf

Page 93 of the above has a render and I'm still not impressed!

I see what you mean - it is the BRI with clean concrete.

You run the risk of one of them being honest, too.

Nah, no risk there!

What do people think about a crossroads/junction replacing the roundabout up there? Pity they won't entertain the thought of re building the flyover. That was the best road in all bristol I'll tell ye.

http://www.insidermedia.com/insider/south-west/70389-plans-bristol-office-block

Here is some more information on this development.

It's certainly no oil painting, but but in all probability it's an improvement ok what's there plus it will add bulk to an area which can handle it.
civic society: it's eight storeys ffs, in a CITY CENTRE. If you can't build an eight storey building in a CITY CENTRE alongside similarly sized buildings then we might as well give up and go back to living in the caves and trees.I could understand an objection to it being built in a leafy suburb, or if it were 20 storeys....but cmon get a grip. At least object to something worthwhile such as the BRI look already alluded to.

What do people think about a crossroads/junction replacing the roundabout up there? Pity they won't entertain the thought of re building the flyover. That was the best road in all bristol I'll tell ye.

Hahaha! You make I larf, Schmeek! I recall talking to a homeless family in the Grosvenor hotel, to the sound of a passing smallish lorry scraping paint off that flyover on the way past. Going over it on a windy day on a motorbike was interesting, but I never thought of it as useful traffic infrastructure. Mind you, it is frustrating finding your way around that area sometimes. Temple Circus gyratory to St Mary Redcliffe can be done two ways, both of which involve turning back on yourself.

I was indifferent about this because I asumed they were just replacing one of those 1970s brick carbuncles, but I must say, I agree with the Civic Society on this one - Albert House is actually one of the few visually pleasing buildings on Victoria Street:
http://maps.google.co.uk/?ll=51.450477,-2.586476&spn=0.004667,0.009645&t=h&z=17&layer=c&cbll=51.450567,-2.586449&panoid=PN5I4WS2XkVoVOD2oiblBA&cbp=12,259.55,,0,-18.32

I appreciate that's just a facade, but why replace something nice with another BRI? At least dismantle the building and re-use the ground floor part of the facade!

I was indifferent about this because I asumed they were just replacing one of those 1970s brick carbuncles, but I must say, I agree with the Civic Society on this one - Albert House is actually one of the few visually pleasing buildings on Victoria Street.

I appreciate that's just a facade, but why replace something nice with another BRI? At least dismantle the building and re-use the ground floor part of the facade!

Hear hear, Bertyboy! And let's dismantle the BRI now the subject has reared its ugly head!

I had a look on google streetview and I agree that half of what is to be demolished is a building with a great frontage, and appears to be 5-6 storeys already giving a nice solid city centre type presence. It's the best amongst about 6 other buildings in that area so getting rid is not wise. There's a lot of dross there apart from it. The other half is a crappy 3 storey block I'd have no objections to it going, but I sympathise with the really quite nice frontage going. Keep that and integrate it will a new building.

I sympathise with the really quite nice frontage going. Keep that and integrate it will a new building.

I didn't realize it was Albert House they were planning on demolishing!

I really like the frontage and don't really mind the rest of the building as well. I thought it was that silly little building on the left hand side they were knocking down!

Why are they trying to destroy older nice looking buildings and put up cheap crap in its place. These architects (Aukett Fitzroy Robinson) need a slap to wake them up as they obviously have no clue! Total NONCE'S!!! :ohno:

I didn't realize it was Albert House they were planning on demolishing!

I really like the frontage and don't really mind the rest of the building as well. I thought it was that silly little building on the left hand side they were knocking down!

Why are they trying to destroy older nice looking buildings and put up cheap crap in its place. These architects (Aukett Fitzroy Robinson) need a slap to wake them up as they obviously have no clue! Total NONCE'S!!! :ohno:

It's not too late to join the Civic Society, Cuebix....

It's not too late to join the Civic Society, Cuebix....

LOL... :lol:

Na im good, though if its a way of stopping them from ripping down a actually half decent looking frontage then maybe I should.

I'm all for the idea of knocking down the little building to the left and bring the stories down to the first floor and then build up something higher (8-10 stories) and incorporating the ground floor facade!

This is the render of the new building in place of Albert House on Victoria Street...

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w164/gee31/ScreenShot2012-05-10at173408.png

I didn't realize it was Albert House they were planning on demolishing!

I really like the frontage and don't really mind the rest of the building as well. I thought it was that silly little building on the left hand side they were knocking down!

Same here! I had no idea.
But again, why have the cs objected to the height of the new build and not the destruction of this facade? Or have I got this wrong?

Same here! I had no idea.
But again, why have the cs objected to the height of the new build and not the destruction of this facade? Or have I got this wrong?

The Civic Society have objected to the loss of Albert House because of the "positive contribution" it makes to Victoria St. as well as to the height of its proposed replacement.

Not sure why they focussed on the height (which is not excessive) when the dreadful mediocrity of the design would be a far easier target.

The Civic Society exists to promote good urban design and I think they are missing an open goal with this one.

Maybe somebody should email this forum link to Aukett Fitzroy Robinson and maybe they'll comment on it!

I love Bristol. Don't get me wrong but seriously will a stadium actually ever be built? The nymbism of this city is holding back so much ambition.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-18033294:bash:

Having said that, I actually agree with the comments on this thread about the bland nature of the proposed development on Victoria Street . It's boring, probably too big and sorry guys, in my view one ot two floors too high in it's current format. It would be overbearing with all the concrete. A much taller building could be possible if it was striking and predominantly glass? It also should retain the historical and pleasant frontage as discussed and demolish the wrank concrete section.

That link isn't working for me, rupert.

Nah, I'm sick to death of glass - there's already an abundance in bristol. How about a nice retro clad build such as the recently completed building next to the ssgb?

That link isn't working for me, rupert.



http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-18033294

It's just pure NIMBYism.

I actually don't know the site - is it actually part of the main UWE campus? Cos if it is, match days will generally not be on days when there's students on campus - so it actually wont be that much of a difference.

Same here! I had no idea.
But again, why have the cs objected to the height of the new build and not the destruction of this facade? Or have I got this wrong?

If I am looking at it right the new Building is in 2 parts. The Part on the left could be built (something much better looking though) and the current design on the for the left could be left as Albert House. Maybe extended upwards etc but as long as they put a nice matching or at least classic looking building next to it I think it will be a worthwhile project and add the the landscape of that area. I actually drove past Albert House today and it's much more imposing than what you can see on GMAPS, It really has got a nice presence about it especially the ground floor.

I don't really understand why they design buildings like they do now. They only buildings that will stand the test of time (and I mean serious time) are the buildings they used to build (when design was good) like the Georgian houses, Victorian Buildings and things like The Royal Marriott, Victoria Rooms, The Queens Buildings etc etc. All the other buildings from Cabot Circus, The Paragon and Finzels Reach to even other well designed projects like St Cathrine's Court (near the Triangle) will eventually get replaced weather it's 10 years or 200. I don't understand why we are not able to build lasting design, the only one that currently comes to mind is the Cathedral House development on Anchor Road but even there I think it will look a little dated after time because it just missing that little something that they used to have in the older buildings.

Oh Well!

Question to all:

Out of all the projects that are either on hold, in planning or speculative, which one would you like to see progress the quickest if you had the choice?

Top 3...

Question to all:

Out of all the projects that are either on hold, in planning or speculative, which one would you like to see progress the quickest if you had the choice?

Top 3...

Mine...

1. BCFC/BRFC Stadia (Ashton Vale and UWE)
2. Bristol Arena (Temple Quarter)
3. EPR Offices (Cabot Circus - in front of the Car Park)

Glassfields, Bank Place and Island Site all in and around Temple Way would also be up there for me.

I don't really understand why they design buildings like they do now. They only buildings that will stand the test of time (and I mean serious time) are the buildings they used to build (when design was good) like the Georgian houses, Victorian Buildings and things like The Royal Marriott, Victoria Rooms, The Queens Buildings etc etc. All the other buildings from Cabot Circus, The Paragon and Finzels Reach to even other well designed projects like St Cathrine's Court (near the Triangle) will eventually get replaced weather it's 10 years or 200. I don't understand why we are not able to build lasting design, the only one that currently comes to mind is the Cathedral House development on Anchor Road but even there I think it will look a little dated after time because it just missing that little something that they used to have in the older buildings.

Oh Well!

Very simple answer....cost!!
Due to modern technology/techniques/materials it is very easy to knock up glass/Upvc/composite boxes which can mostly be prefabricated. It's a no brainer to a developer really - why spend extra dough designing and constructing something which will take longer and cost more but be no more practical?

Question to all:

Out of all the projects that are either on hold, in planning or speculative, which one would you like to see progress the quickest if you had the choice?

Top 3...

Same as yours!

Do transport projects count? If so;

1. 4-tracking Filton Bank
2. Improvements to Temple Meads
3. Arena

Bank Place/Glassfields, stadia and Bridewell Island all close contenders.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-18033294

It's just pure NIMBYism.

I actually don't know the site - is it actually part of the main UWE campus? Cos if it is, match days will generally not be on days when there's students on campus - so it actually wont be that much of a difference.

When I was at UWE, it was open for lectures until 9pm, and drinks in the SU until whenever. Since then, it has grown and grown and grown. Half of Bristol Rovers' home games are played midweek. The football and rugby seasons almost exactly mirror the "academic" year. A 7.45 kick-off means a 9.30 finish, followed by drinks in the wherever until whenever. As nobody with a job to go to at 7am the following morning will be out that late, and as Rovers' midweek games attract fewer Bristolians than some ante-natal clinics around the area, any traffic chaos that might ensue is unlikely to cause social disorder. Public transport will not be affected, as there are no buses by then, and no-one will want to walk all the way back to Abbey Wood for a train. The action will take place over the border, in South Glos, and it will all be over before I wake up the following morning.

So I don't care. I do, though, feel strongly that use of the acronym NIMBY has become a term of abuse to be deployed as a riposte to rational argument by anyone who thinks they know better than the guy whose dream home lies right next door to where they want to build their monstrous carbuncle, wind farm, high speed rail link, abbatoir etc, and who have no reasonable answer to their very reasonable objections. Call me a NIMBY if you like.

So I don't care. I do, though, feel strongly that use of the acronym NIMBY has become a term of abuse to be deployed as a riposte to rational argument by anyone who thinks they know better than the guy whose dream home lies right next door to where they want to build their monstrous carbuncle, wind farm, high speed rail link, abbatoir etc, and who have no reasonable answer to their very reasonable objections. Call me a NIMBY if you like.

I take your point baij, but there are NIMBYS and then there are NIMBYS! People choose to live in an urban environment, they have to understand things will be built somewhere - and quite possibly on their doorstep. Anything otherwise would be just plain naive..
It's hypocritical to expect to use the infrastructure and facilities/amenities of an urban area, but then to bemoan a development which is ' intrusive' to their perfect little bubble, hence the quite just 'not in my backyard' tag. They happily shop at supermarkets, draw electricity from the power station and swim at the leisure complex, without so much as a thought for the people who live nearby. You can't have it both ways.
To use an argument which is based on "we moved here because we thought nothing would be built there" is just mental, really.
I don't blame them for objecting. Sometimes you need to fight your corner. But if I were to be in that position I would also be aware and accept I were being a NIMBY. The term nimby isn't far wide of the mark imo.

When I was at UWE, it was open for lectures until 9pm, and drinks in the SU until whenever. Since then, it has grown and grown and grown. Half of Bristol Rovers' home games are played midweek. The football and rugby seasons almost exactly mirror the "academic" year. A 7.45 kick-off means a 9.30 finish, followed by drinks in the wherever until whenever. As nobody with a job to go to at 7am the following morning will be out that late, and as Rovers' midweek games attract fewer Bristolians than some ante-natal clinics around the area, any traffic chaos that might ensue is unlikely to cause social disorder.

Actually Rovers only played four midweek home games last season and I assume you come from a very fertile area as gates average 6,000!

As for Cuebix's list

Four track
Arena
Temple Meads transport interchange

What I'd really like as well, is the realignment of Redcliffe Way away from St Mary Redcliffe. A new public square with well designed buildings to line the road and frame the square. With things as they are, that's surely a pipe dream for at least 10 more years.

Actually Rovers only played four midweek home games last season and I assume you come from a very fertile area as gates average 6,000!

As for Cuebix's list

Four track
Arena
Temple Meads transport interchange

What I'd really like as well, is the realignment of Redcliffe Way away from St Mary Redcliffe. A new public square with well designed buildings to line the road and frame the square. With things as they are, that's surely a pipe dream for at least 10 more years.

Sorry Geoff, a snide dig.

I agree with your list. Redliffe Way, IIRC, was to be realigned as part of the ATA vision for trams. With that in mind, 10 years sounds wildly optimistic.

Ah yes, and give the church a good deep clean as well!

Off topic slightly - don't know if I've mentioned this before - would like to see the marriott demolished, and replaced with something bold, elegant and maybe quite large.
I'm not fussy.

Ah yes, and give the church a good deep clean as well!

Off topic slightly - don't know if I've mentioned this before - would like to see the marriott demolished, and replaced with something bold, elegant and maybe quite large.
I'm not fussy.

Why? What's wrong with the Marriott? It's a beautiful building, and I think something modern would spoil college green.

Bristol has two Marriotts.

Bristol has two Marriotts.

Oh yeah, there's that one at Castle Park, isn't there?

Which one do you mean, Schmeek? :lol:

TBH, I'd get rid of the Ramada near St. Mary Redcliffe too.

Managed to pop into the Architecture Cente on Narrow Quay today where they have an exhibition called Bristol: Retrofit City. As the name suggests, it's about converting buildings to new uses and it includes past and planned projects. If you have the time it's well worth a look.

Past projects include Arnolfini, Watershed, Quakers Friars etc. Future ones include the General Hospital, which looks like it could be superb and the Chocolate Factory project in Greenbank, which unfortunately seems to have ground to a halt. There is also the Collett House site at Temple Meads. The building fronting Cattlemarket Rd is staying and undergoing a Paintworks type conversion, which incidentally is another featured project.

Sorry Geoff, a snide dig.



Absolutely no offence taken - you should try watching them, you'd be able to think of far worse! :)

Which one do you mean, Schmeek? :lol:

The one which was imported from the eastern blok;)

Absolutely no offence taken - you should try watching them, you'd be able to think of far worse! :)

I have tried. It didn't go well.

Very simple answer....cost!!
Due to modern technology/techniques/materials it is very easy to knock up glass/Upvc/composite boxes which can mostly be prefabricated. It's a no brainer to a developer really - why spend extra dough designing and constructing something which will take longer and cost more but be no more practical?

I thought as much... It's still sad state though! :ohno:

The scaffolding has come down showing the hole for the bridge at Finzels;
http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj130/regabc123/IMAG0576.jpg

Unlucky but good effort to Bristol Rugby yesterday!!! Look forward to next season!

Still don't understand how Champions of the league are not automatically promoted, what a stupid system!

The scaffolding has come down showing the hole for the bridge at Finzels;


Still seems to be a lot of work to be done around there. How long is it going to be before we are allowed to have a walk around? 1 year or 2?

Does anybody have any links to the Sommerdale (Cadburys) Factory plans? Has anything been released by Taylor Wimpey yet?

Unlucky but good effort to Bristol Rugby yesterday!!! Look forward to next season!

Still don't understand how Champions of the league are not automatically promoted, what a stupid system!

Yeah - it's a pretty poor system designed purely to ensure that not too many of the 'traditional' big Rugby teams ever get relegated. If only 1 team gets promoted, then only 1 team is relegated.

But if only 1 team gets promoted, they still need the 'play off' contest with the extra cash those games generate.

I think this is the 2nd time (maybe 3rd time) recently where Bristol have finished top of the league but loose out in the play offs.

Still seems to be a lot of work to be done around there. How long is it going to be before we are allowed to have a walk around? 1 year or 2?

As I have mentioned on here before, you can explore more of the development than you would think. It still looks like a no access building site, but if you walk down the 'road' next to the show room on counterslip, you can walk right through to where the bridge will be. I'd recommend it.

Thanks to pompey 77 for the pic by the way.

Bristol has two Marriotts.

That's at least one too many.

That's at least two too many.

Fixed.

What I'd really like as well, is the realignment of Redcliffe Way away from St Mary Redcliffe. A new public square with well designed buildings to line the road and frame the square. With things as they are, that's surely a pipe dream for at least 10 more years.

This is one of the things a decent mayor could pull off relatively quickly. At least the realignment of the road and creation of a square. Selling off the rest of the land for development which could indeed take some time.

There's a big opportunity to create a sting of public spaces from Temple Meads to College Green via St Mary Redcliffe, Queens Square and the centre. All connected by pedestrian and cycle focused streets if not total pedestrianization (with the unfortunate exception of Temple Gate).

What I'd really like as well, is the realignment of Redcliffe Way away from St Mary Redcliffe. A new public square with well designed buildings to line the road and frame the square. With things as they are, that's surely a pipe dream for at least 10 more years.

I dont quite understand what you mean about this square? Are you suggesting that the roundabout get replaced by a pedestrianized square?

You got any images? and is this a project which is on the cards but has been delayed?

Look at a map. Its fairly obvious whats possible if Redcliff Way was closed and Portwall Lane widened to accommodate traffic, there's room to move Redcliffe Hill away from the church also.

I dont quite understand what you mean about this square? Are you suggesting that the roundabout get replaced by a pedestrianized square? You got any images? and is this a project which is on the cards but has been delayed?

I think it's more of an aspiration at this point. Search for 'Future of Redcliffe SPD'. I think it's also been recently re-affirmed in the Bristol Central Area Action Plan (http://www.bristol.gov.uk/page/bristol-central-area-action-plan) (e.g. section 7.8). The idea is basically to heavily reduce traffic on Redcliffe Hill and Redcliffe Way, remove the roundabout and create a public square in front of St. Mary Redcliffe, and increase density, which I guess means some new developments between Portwall Ln and Redcliffe Way. Perhaps the BRT alignment will get things moving.

Right, bare with the awful diagram but is this the sort of thing you mean?

If you put the square where the roundabout is now then you would be creating traffic chaos as they are busy roads and having them line the square would not be ideal. Even with where I have put the square it would have a major effect of traffic and lets face it we could do with not adding to it!

Also Why does it have to be a square? Why not a circle or hexagon etc etc :)

Green Lines - New Roads
Red Lines - New Square - Obviously the square would have seating and maybe cafes and restaurants spilling out onto it!
Blue Lines - New Buildings (Offices, Shops and Cafes etc)
Yellow Lines - New Development area (I think the area nearer the water already has some sort of development planning permission)

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w164/gee31/ScreenShot2012-05-15at112059-1.png

As I understand it, the intention really is to reduce traffic on Redcliffe Hill/Way so that it's not a four-lane thoroughfare any longer. I'm sure the surrounding roads (Clarence Road and York Road) can be made to cope with a bit of tweaking of junctions and layouts, but then I'm not a traffic engineer of course. Perhaps those roads could both be made one-way, which would simplify the bridge roundabouts a bit as well. And I believe the plan (?) is also to turn the Temple Circus gyratory into a plain junction as well. I'm sure we'll find out more when the details for the BRT alignment/stop come out.

Why would you want to put buildings on the south side of the square and spoil views of the magnificent church?! It could be a great European style cafe piazza with the lawns of the church melting into the square.

They've been talking about closing Redcliffe Way (or at least moving it away from St Mary Redcliffe and making it a smaller road) ever since they closed the dual carriageway through Queen Sq and changed the layout of the roads through the centre. Those changes means that there is less traffic going that way now (although sometimes you'd never believe it with the tailbacks along there!)

This was the latest one doing it http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-15227536

Chatterton House, the boarded up small building on the other side of Redcliffe Way overlooking the carpark is actually a listed building that needs urgent renovation to save it.

I dont quite understand what you mean about this square? Are you suggesting that the roundabout get replaced by a pedestrianized square?

You got any images? and is this a project which is on the cards but has been delayed?

Your picture is a pretty good approximation. As Dronkula said, ever since the inner circuit road had its section through Queen Square removed, improving the setting of St Mary Redcliffe has been an aspiration. It is include in the draft Central Area Action Plan but without any detailed proposals.

http://www.bristol.gov.uk/page/bristol-central-area-action-plan

It is on p.168 if you don't fancy ploughing through the whole thing.

Edit- sorry tpm only just realised you've basically said all this already.

Why would you want to put buildings on the south side of the square and spoil views of the magnificent church?! It could be a great European style cafe piazza with the lawns of the church melting into the square.

I see what you mean, but the fall of the land would mean that the upper part of the church would still be seen over modest (no more than 3 storey) buildings. As some traffic would still need to pass along Portwall Lane, a new square defined by buildings would be protected from traffic noise and could be a great piece of urban theatre. It might be quite dramatic as you enter the square to see the fully revealed church for the first time.

European style cafe piazza

Please don't ever use these words together again. Thanks;)

Nah, I'm sick to death of glass - there's already an abundance in bristol. How about a nice retro clad build such as the recently completed building next to the ssgb?

I'm not a massive fan of cladding to be honest Schmeeky. Yes the Western Dockyard looks authentically like a timber clad navel shed and is interesting but there are terrible examples of cladding all over the city.

Take the Unite student accommodation block opposite the new Magistrates Court building. It just looks cheap and in fact take the Magistrates Court building itself, that nasty yellowy/orange cladding effect is pretty dreadful and will age very badly, adding to Cubix’s very valid point on building’s legacies.

http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/7458/magistratescourt108c848.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/98/magistratescourt108c848.jpg/)

Glass and steel do make great buildings, or decent brickwork, either red brick like the Granary or beautiful stonework are my preferred materials. But the big thing is good architecture and design. Almost any materials can be used to make great buildings if the architecture is right in my view.

I was strolling through Temple Quarter earlier today. I noticed how pressing the need is to sort out that old Grosvenor hotel and the building next to it. If a decent office building gets built there it will really tie in that area surrounding the roundabout, I'm quite amazed it is still standing. It's a prime location that.

Work is proceeding on the new Harbourside building, I've made a short time lapse of the work from this morning.
http://s1219.photobucket.com/albums/dd435/Ru_Leamon/?action=view&current=MyMovie1.mp4

You legend! Keep it going, got a great view there..

Yeah - it's a pretty poor system designed purely to ensure that not too many of the 'traditional' big Rugby teams ever get relegated. If only 1 team gets promoted, then only 1 team is relegated.

But if only 1 team gets promoted, they still need the 'play off' contest with the extra cash those games generate.

I think this is the 2nd time (maybe 3rd time) recently where Bristol have finished top of the league but loose out in the play offs.

I agree guys and now look, the RFU have abolished the playoff pool games possibly because of this very fact with Bristol.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/18102034

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/18058846

Two seasons they have won the league by a country mile and have been the best team in the league, it came down to a "mad" 10 minutes which ruined a whole season.

Question to all:

Out of all the projects that are either on hold, in planning or speculative, which one would you like to see progress the quickest if you had the choice?

Top 3...

If transport does count I would love to see this:

1. BTM electrification and refurbishment of Brunel’s Shed to house the new terminus as this will be massive for Bristol, along with electrification of Greater Bristol rail network.
2. St Mary Redcliffe rework of the square along with the stalled boatyard site could be transformational and extend the elegance of Queens Square.
3. Bank House/Glassfields for some brutish glass and steel capitalism.

I agree guys and now look, the RFU have abolished the playoff pool games possibly because of this very fact with Bristol.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/18102034

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/18058846

Two seasons they have won the league by a country mile and have been the best team in the league, it came down to a "mad" 10 minutes which ruined a whole season.

It's about time. It was an unbelievably ill-thought out and unfair system. Still is to a degree, but to have the team which has 'won' the division by a country mile contesting play offs with a team from mid table was a chronic disease. What is the point? Bristol might as well have not bothered turning up to their last 10 games.
The fault ultimately lies with the premiership though, only allowing one team up. I understand it is a system designed to protect the big clubs, but in this case it is backfiring and hampering a big club who are being denied entry. I don't think such a system has any merits anyway. Why do big clubs deserve any special treatment? Just let two down and two up, then the top club will be rightly automatically promoted, with a play off for the second spot.

The RFU have introduce an improved system where only the top four play off, but that still means you can win the division by a mile and not get promoted.

Mind you this is the organisation that at one point in the seaon had managed to produce a cup competition where you didn't actually play teams in your pool, but moved up and down it depending upon your results against teams in another pool.

If professional rugby wants to progress they have to sort out their shambolic administration.

Mind you this is the organisation that at one point in the seaon had managed to produce a cup competition where you didn't actually play teams in your pool, but moved up and down it depending upon your results against teams in another pool.

If professional rugby wants to progress they have to sort out their shambolic administration.

Wtf? Trying to get my head round that cup competition you've just described, but it ain't happening!

Thing is, there is plenty that rugby does very well indeed, such as discipline (sin bin, captain only talking to refs), TMO, friendly fans/drinking in stadiums... but unfortunately they seem to have made a complete hash of the very fundamentals - such as winning things - at least at domestic level. The premiership is equally farcical - how many times has a club topped the championship, but actually not won it?? Would never ever happen in football. Imagine fergie or wenger's faces after losing a playoff decider having finished 10 points clear!!

Still a stupid system!!!

Champions should get auto promotion...

Yippeee!! The planners have approved the GCC plans. Councillors need to make final approval 30th May....

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-18174712

Yippeee!! The planners have approved the GCC plans. Councilers need to make final approval 30th May....

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-18174712

Let's hope so. The councillors turned the last one down after the planners recommended approval, so with luck rearranging the scheme to make it one storey lower will sway them

Incidentally,

The public inquiry into the Long Ashton to Temple Meads BRT scheme started this week - various stories about it in the EP including a statement from someone at BCC stating that they're planning on the Temple Meads stop being alongside the Passenger shed and not on the other side of Temple Circus.

http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Plans-place-bendy-bus-stop-outside-station/story-16170765-detail/story.html

Not just Long Ashton to TM - I got a letter from South Gloucestershire Council yesterday saying the public consultation on the detailed BRT scheme to from Hengrove to Cribbs is now open.
The key changes are:
o New Stoke Gifford transport link road from the ring road to Bradley Stoke
o Road widening along the length of Bradley Stoke Way to accommodate the BRT lanes
o New junction on M32 near UWE
o Road layout changes in the city centre
o New bridge over the Avon New Cut
o Widening of Hartcliffe Way

Where is the new bridge over the new cut gonna be?

Where is the new bridge over the new cut gonna be?

I think from around the Louisiana (Wapping Rd/Cumberland Rd) to the ASDA car park (St John's Rd).

o New junction on M32 near UWE

Where exactly and will it be for the BRT Scheme only or will other drivers etc also be able to use the junction?

Thanks tpm. Makes sense to have a bridge there I suppose, branching off just after the small bridge across the bathurst basin inlet and it could join at the junction between st johns rd and coronation road and form a crossroads.
Cubix:
Brt only if remember correctly. Or at least just for buses in general. Don't know where exactly.

Where exactly and will it be for the BRT Scheme only or will other drivers etc also be able to use the junction?

Near the Dower House where Coldharbour Lane crosses over the M32. Its buses only like Schmeek said.

All the engineering maps are here:
http://www.travelwest.info/content/north-fringe-hengrove-maps

The new bridge will be near the old General Hospital (last page):
http://www.travelwest.info/sites/default/files/DH0249-PC-A2-01%20to%2008%20Rev%20A_0.pdf

A video fly through of the university's new life science building at the top of St Michael's Hill.

http://www.bris.ac.uk/estates/projects/life-sciences/

(fifth thumbnail image)

A video fly through of the university's new life science building at the top of St Michael's Hill.

http://www.bris.ac.uk/estates/projects/life-sciences/

(fifth thumbnail image)

Nice fly-thru and seems like it will be a top place to work. Wish it had a little more presence and design flair from the main road though. All in all though it replaces one ugly building and the more we get rid of the better. :)

A video fly through of the university's new life science building at the top of St Michael's Hill.

http://www.bris.ac.uk/estates/projects/life-sciences/

(fifth thumbnail image)

Wow, very impressed with this. Hats off to University of Bristol for this design and standard of architecture. I have always liked the red brick Dorothy Hodgkin building by the magistrates court, which also has presence. Both buildings actually contribute to Bristol.

All the engineering maps are here:
http://www.travelwest.info/content/north-fringe-hengrove-maps

The new bridge will be near the old General Hospital (last page):
http://www.travelwest.info/sites/default/files/DH0249-PC-A2-01%20to%2008%20Rev%20A_0.pdf

To follow on from Berty's engineering drawings, the exhibition boards on the link below give an idea of the proposed changes to the city centre.



http://www.travelwest.info/node/347/#E1

Oh wow, those plans don't appear to suck. In fact... they look great!

The removal of traffic on the north eastern flank and the redevelopment/extension of the (new) square around the cenotaph is the best part.

Oh wow, those plans don't appear to suck. In fact... they look great!

The removal of traffic on the north eastern flank and the redevelopment/extension of the (new) square around the cenotaph is the best part.

WOW in deed... They really do look good... Some decent street art/furniture and some small buildings housing cafes etc would do some good and make it a bustling area! They seem to have blocked all traffic from Colston Avenue East to Quay Street which is not the best and also got rid of the turning up to Colston Hall from St Augustine's Parade, both ideas a little backwards if you ask me!!!

Would like to see the harbor bought back in though.... :ohno:

There are also images for the new bridge over the New Cut

http://www.travelwest.info/node/348/

and the new bus only junction on the M32

http://www.travelwest.info/node/345/

Brilliant thanks.

Planning committee has just approved the redevelopment of Gloucester county cricket ground

Planning committee has just approved the redevelopment of Gloucester county cricket ground

Yup, just saw the twitter feed.

Planning committee has just approved the redevelopment of Gloucester county cricket ground

Just two new fooball stadiums to go and we'll be looking OK on the sporting front.

Just two new fooball stadiums to go and we'll be looking OK on the sporting front.

And arena... :)

Good news for GCCC and Bristol as a whole. At least we will have a world class venue in something...

I wouldn't say it will be a world class venue in the true sense of the term, but at least it will secure some international cricket for the region.
I too quite like the new plans for the centre lay out. It simplifies things, and to have the cenotaph area relieved of all that traffic is a blessing. I always thought that end of the promenade was a waste and downright depressing even at the best of times.
It will be interesting to see how traffic flows are affected elsewhere though.

Work is proceeding on the new Harbourside building, I've made a short time lapse of the work from this morning.
http://s1219.photobucket.com/albums/dd435/Ru_Leamon/?action=view&current=MyMovie1.mp4

Hugo, do have any more time lapse yet, or any any single photos? Just wondering how things are progressing but don't want to have to travel down there myself if dont need to! Thanks in advance.

Planning committee has just approved the redevelopment of Gloucester county cricket ground

Horray!!

Oh wow, those plans don't appear to suck. In fact... they look great!

The removal of traffic on the north eastern flank and the redevelopment/extension of the (new) square around the cenotaph is the best part.

This is good news and I also think the new square could knit the harbourside / Queens Square and Park Street to West Broadmead nicely. Are we talking about the road between the Cenotaph and that Pub and Corn Street side or the other side as you leave the centre through lewins mead?

This:
the road between the Cenotaph and that Pub and Corn Street side

Looking at it though, I'm not entirely sure if Small St & St Stephen's St are being turned into cul-de-sacs completely or if they're having their access largely restricted.

This:


Looking at it though, I'm not entirely sure if Small St & St Stephen's St are being turned into cul-de-sacs completely or if they're having their access largely restricted.

http://www.travelwest.info/sites/default/files/BD2336%20City%20Centre%20Visualisation%20panel_%20800mm%20wide%20x1%20off.pdf

Judging from this - restricted rather than completely cut off.

Two pieces of news on the Beeb (Bristol) website today:

1) A group of allotment owners are the first to raise their objections to the BRT as the M32 junction would involve moving allotment plots.

2) BCC have approved the compulsory purchase of Westmoreland House in Stokes Croft.

Hugo, do have any more time lapse yet, or any any single photos? Just wondering how things are progressing but don't want to have to travel down there myself if dont need to! Thanks in advance.

Hey,

Sorry been away for a few days, here's a pic of the latest work:
http://i1219.photobucket.com/albums/dd435/Ru_Leamon/20120606_211403_HDR.jpg

I'll try and do another timelapse in the next few days. Unfortunately my battery only lasts for 3 hours ish so its hard to capture that much work.

Thanks for that. No worries, one pic every week our two will do me! Out of interest, can you not just take one still snap every couple of hours instead of leaving the camera running, then stick them together that way? Just need to ensure the camera has a specific permanent fixed point, of course.

Hey, I'll take some more pics every week or so. Re the time lapse, I've got a timer but have to leave the camera on. If the camera goes into sleep mode then the timer won't trigger it - most annoying

Ah I see.
Good work, keep it coming it's a decent vantage point you have there.

Another good update hugodrax - thank you.

Just a small residential development in Ashley Down but perhaps worth a mention:

http://www.insidermedia.com/insider/south-west/71735-former-orphanage-set-flats-plan

Some curious information about Redcliffe Way:
http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Growing-trend-retrofit-architecture-Bristol/story-16300152-detail/story.html



The most exciting current retrofit schemes don't just refurbish an old building," Rob says. "They rework a whole section of the city – look at the proposals for the new Enterprise Zone in Temple Quay and, even more exciting in my opinion, the ideas for the retrofit of the whole Redcliffe Way area.

"The idea is that the dual carriageway running past St Mary Redcliffe, is just a hang-over from the days when it led to the dual carriageway that once – unbelievably – cut a swathe through the middle of Queen Square. In fact, these days the dual carriageway serves no real purpose.

"So local firm Barton Wilmore has come up with a plan to revolutionise the area by diverting traffic away from there, and using the dual carriageway as a place to build an exciting new development.

"These plans show just how much developable land could be made available if the road network was down- scaled.

"Approximately 15 acres of publicly-owned land could be freed up for retrofit purposes, making space for new buildings and a series of humanly scaled streets and spaces, including much needed improvements to the setting for St Mary Redcliffe church, with a new Redcliffe Square.

"Then you have what George Ferguson is calling the city's 'media mile'," Rob adds.

"That would see a complete retrofit of the area between the Paintworks and the proposed new Enterprise Zone at Temple Quay. That, together with the Redcliffe Way project, would join up the dots for the city – bringing together previous retrofit developments like Paintworks in the south, and Spike Island in the west."


Here's hoping it doesn't disappear into the ether.

Did anyone go to that What Next for Bristol? event at the Architecture Centre earlier tonight?

/\/\/\
http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Bristol-makes-terrible-impression-George-Ferguson/story-16337059-detail/story.html

I've always been slightly suspicious of GF, and whilst that view remains, I can't help but be impressed with what he says here.

/\/\/\
http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Bristol-makes-terrible-impression-George-Ferguson/story-16337059-detail/story.html

I've always been slightly suspicious of GF, and whilst that view remains, I can't help but be impressed with what he says here.

I can understand that point of view as he might be regarded as something of a self publicist. That said, his firm's track record of urban regeneration is very good and it's hard to disagree with anything he says here.

I know some City fans view him in a dim light because of his opposition to the Ashton Gate Sainsbury's (although in purely urban land use terms I think he was right) - I believe he would actually make a very good mayor because of his understanding of how cities work and how to make ours better.

That said, his firm's track record of urban regeneration is very good and it's hard to disagree with anything he says here.


Agreed, but what he's saying here is hardly ground-breaking stuff, it sounds pretty much like what every local planning official would say as well - straight from the Bristol Central Area Action Plan or http://www.greaterbristolrail.com . It's not like he's actually got to persuade anyone that what he's saying make sense, it's all in the works already: Plot 6 / Temple Meads redevelopment / enterprise zone / island / turning the gyratory into a junction, redcliffe way redevelopment, etc. etc.

Agreed, but what he's saying here is hardly ground-breaking stuff, it sounds pretty much like what every local planning official would say as well - straight from the Bristol Central Area Action Plan or http://www.greaterbristolrail.com . It's not like he's actually got to persuade anyone that what he's saying make sense, it's all in the works already: Plot 6 / Temple Meads redevelopment / enterprise zone / island / turning the gyratory into a junction, redcliffe way redevelopment, etc. etc.

Yes, that's very true but having a mayor who would push that agenda hard might speed things up. That's not to say that there aren't other candidates who would do exactly the same, but we're not in a position to judge yet I suppose with a field of about one at present.

I believe he would actually make a very good mayor because of his understanding of how cities work and how to make ours better.
This.
He is a candidate who knows how to shape our city, and that must be a big positive.
I was particularly in agreement with this bit:
"An awful lot of the worst buildings are from people keeping to the rules," he said. "My first rule in planning is looking to break the rules".

Whether it would be within his remit to rewrite the rulebook, I don't know. But he'd certainly have a big influence.

He's talking about two completely different things according to that article: developing the city as an attraction for visitors, and developing the city for the people that live and work there. It's linking the two or striking a balance between them that will prove to be the most difficult part because whilst it all sounds great coming from him now, if and when it is put into practice, there will be people who will say they're losing out or claim that he's not doing enough on either of the two matters.

In my opinion, a lot of what he's saying makes sense and it's great that he's got some sort of vision but I feel that the priority should be allowing the city to develop for the people that live there. Boulevarding roads and whatever risks disneyfying the city. Birmingham has done this probably more than anyone else and in the process has swept some of its deeper problems under the rug. Bristol doesn't have an image problem so I don't think there's much risk of this so long as the focus isn't placed so much on beautifying parts for the benefits of visitors.

You're right, it is about striking a balance, but I think also they go hand in hand to some extent.
It isn't so much a case of 'beautifying' the city for the sake of it - there is a practical need in some cases, to improve to cognitive structure, and make the most of what we've got.
sorting out the area around temple meads will happen, mayor or not. The enterprise zone will, see to that. It is important to have visitors arrive with a good impression, but that will also be important to the people who live in bristol and use the station to commute.
Same with st may redcliffe - a fantastic asset to the city which is untapped due to it's location. Sure, it'll look good in the tourist brochure behind a lovely shiny new square, and bring more people in, but it will also be give back something to the people of bristol as well, not just visitors.

Another thing:


Mr Ferguson also spoke of his support for extending the Floating Harbour by putting a barrage in the Avon Gorge – an idea which forms part of an ambitious vision for the city called Bristol 2050, which was put together by The Initiative, a group of influential business leaders.

He said he would like to see a much more bottom-up approach to planning, with communities getting much more of a say (...)


I wonder how the "communities" / Friends of the Avon New Cut / Friends of the River Avon will feel about that idea ;)

"An ambitious vision for the city, put together by The Initiative, a group of influential business leaders."

"He said he would like to see a much more bottom-up approach to planning, with communities getting much more of a say."

A bit tricky to reconcile the two!

Bristol's mayor to be one of most powerful figures in Britain

BRISTOL is close to sealing a deal with the government for a major transfer of power from Whitehall, a ministers has said.

Greg Clark told The Post the new City Deal would probably be in place before the new elected mayor takes office in November.

He also claimed the mayor would be "one of the most powerful political figures in the country", who would go down in the city's history.

Last month Bristol was the only one of 10 cities to vote in favour of ditching the current council setup in favour of an elected mayor.

Mr Clark, the Cities Minister, promised a "continuous transfer" of power to the new mayor once they are elected, saying public transport would be "top of the list".

But he quashed hopes that the mayor vote and city deal would lead to extra government cash for Bristol, saying: "None of this is about grants from central government."

There would be "billions of pounds of potential" from new borrowing powers and financial freedoms to drive investment, he said.

"This isn't an application for government funding, it's about taking powers from central government to the city authorities to address particular means of achieving their economic potential," said Mr Clark.

Bristol would become the third city, after Liverpool and Manchester, to seal a city deal with the government.

Council and business leaders have submitted a case to Whitehall, setting out which powers they want to take on.

Mr Clark said he would not reveal what these were while negotiations are taking place.

He said: "Even before the election, I would hope that we could negotiate the transfer of powers to Bristol."

Asked whether it would be better to wait until the elected mayor is in post, he added: "The deal that has been put forward is, I think, demonstrably in the interests of Bristol.

"Any Bristolian, I am sure, would want to see greater powers for Bristol."

There has been some confusion about whether elected mayors were needed in order for city deals to be struck.

Yesterday Mr Clark told the Post that Bristol had "passed the test" by voting Yes, giving it stable leadership. – even though other cities, like Manchester, had not needed a mayor.

When the mayor takes office, Mr Clark insisted nothing was off the table in terms of extra powers.

Some transfers would be possible without an Act of Parliament, he said.

The minister agreed that Bristol's public transport network was a "very big issue".

He said: "I would expect that it would be top of the list of any mayor of Bristol. From my point of view, I would encourage it."

The Department for Transport was "very keen" for control over local matters to be devolved, he said.

And he was cool on the idea that Bristol's mayor could eventually be given a remit covering the three neighbouring local authorities of South Gloucestershire, North Somerset and Bath & North East Somerset, which some campaigners say is needed to solve the region's transport problems.

Mr Clark said: "In Bristol, I suspect, people will want to see how it works. If in the future there was an approach to vary the arrangements, it would be considered at the time."

Mr Clark, who said Bristol had been a "well-kept secret", said the new mayor would raise the city's profile.

He insisted the government's policy of forcing cities to hold a referendum had not been a failure, despite only Bristol voting Yes to introducing the post last month.

He pointed to Liverpool and Leicester, where council leaders chose to adopt a mayor without a public vote, and said: "The mould has been broken."

Mr Clark also said that David Cameron's promise of a "cabinet of mayors" meeting would be honoured, despite the low take-up.

The mayors of the three cities will be invited to Downing Street, with the Prime Minister chairing the first meeting. After that they will decide how to get together, he said.

http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Bristol-s-mayor-powerful-figures-Britain/story-16345643-detail/story.html

:)

Here's a couple of pics from the latest work on the Harbourside:
http://i1219.photobucket.com/albums/dd435/Ru_Leamon/20120612_203552.jpg
They've started putting down some concrete now and have nearly finished clearing the site:
http://i1219.photobucket.com/albums/dd435/Ru_Leamon/20120612_202127.jpg
Linden homes are also getting on quite well with the old gas buildings. They're nearly taken out all the old scaffolding supporting the building and have put in steels to replace it. Looks like they're getting ready to put on a roof fairly soon:
http://i1219.photobucket.com/albums/dd435/Ru_Leamon/20120612_200050.jpg

Thanks for the pics Hugo. Looks like it's coming along nicely.

Unite plans for the Ice rink/O2 academy;

http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/New-look-Bristol-s-02-Arena-ice-rink/story-16367235-detail/story.html

Not massively keen, but I'll console myself with the thought that it looks infinitely better than the ice rink.
Strange that they're only going to pull down the top part. I'd have thought it would ba actually cheaper to pay the owners of the O2 some compensation and start from scratch, completing the venue first. It certainly needs a massive overhaul on the inside (including *much* needed air conditioning!).

Home Counties and South West Thread!!!

:ohno: :ohno: :ohno: :ohno: :ohno:

Oh my God - I was freaking out for a minute there! I thought they'd deleted the Bristol thread!

An interesting, but unlikely to succeed idea to rebuild the Dutch House.

http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Ambitious-plan-rebuild-bombed-Dutch-House/story-16375566-detail/story.html

Not surprisingly it seems that the plans to redevelop the St Mary-le-Port end of Castle Park have collapsed.

^^Quite frankly I would take a reconstructed Dutch house over that any day, as crazy as that sounds. I genuinely hope Mr Howe succeeds with this, and who knows, maybe if someone like George Ferguson or Marvin Rees gets voted in as mayor it might happen?

Blimey - 6 years since I joined and finally... finally, Bristol gets a space to have more than one thread. 6 years of oppression from the elitist northerners and their subjugation of the rest of the non london, non northern uk to second class status.... :bash: Finally the shackles are broken. All I need to do now is muster up the same enthusiasm I had 6 years ago to talk about what's going on & join in.....

I think we need to break out some of the bigger U/C and Planned Bristol projects into their own threads (and keep this one for general Bristol chatter).

I thought maybe for starters:
BRISTOL | Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone
BRISTOL | Harbourside Development
BRISTOL | Transport

Any thoughts?

Perhaps not immediately but in a couple of months a 'Bristol | Mayoral Election 2012' thread would be good, we should start to learn more about the devolved powers and have a full set of candidate to discuss in the run up to the election.

I think we need to break out some of the bigger U/C and Planned Bristol projects into their own threads (and keep this one for general Bristol chatter).

I thought maybe for starters:
BRISTOL | Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone
BRISTOL | Harbourside Development
BRISTOL | Transport

Any thoughts?

That seems a pretty good arrangement Berty.

I would argue the case for a bristol sporting/cultural venues thread. There is more than enough to chew on there at present with the football clubs, cricket club and the city arena in the pipeline.

Wapping wharf is kicking off - does that deserve it's own thread? It's quite big being the entire area in pic 1 - Website http://www.wappingwharf.co.uk/index.html

http://www.wappingwharf.co.uk/images/project-information/18.jpg
http://www.wappingwharf.co.uk/images/project-information/15.jpg
http://www.wappingwharf.co.uk/images/project-information/16.jpg
http://www.wappingwharf.co.uk/images/project-information/17.jpg

Also, Glassfields is trying to sell itself hard again - presumably prior to starting. limited excitement but reasonable infill - website http://www.glassfields.com

http://www.glassfields.com/images/building3.jpg

http://www.glassfields.com/images/building4.jpg

http://www.glassfields.com/images/building1.jpg

Maybe, though Glassfields and Wapping wharf could go into these threads, respectively:

BRISTOL | Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone
BRISTOL | Harbourside Development

I suppose a potential problem is that, individually, most of the projects aren't big enough to warrant threads of their own, but at the same time there's probably enough going on that the above threads could get bogged down pretty quickly.

I guess we should be so lucky?

The threads would get lost very quickly so there's not really much point.

Its only worth doing individual threads if we had a "Bristol" thread which Jan (the good old gentleman I emailed to get a singular thread for Bristol) seems to be against and I have no idea why that is.

I think he misunderstood my email hence him starting the "Home Counties and South West" Thread... LOL, really isn't that hard to understand the email I sent but then again, obviously was!

Er, what are you on about? That makes no sense.

I think we need to break out some of the bigger U/C and Planned Bristol projects into their own threads (and keep this one for general Bristol chatter).

I thought maybe for starters:
BRISTOL | Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone
BRISTOL | Harbourside Development
BRISTOL | Transport

Any thoughts?

Plus perhaps as suggested by BIGcider

BRISTOL | Cultural and sporting

(Rovers, City, GCCC, Colston Hall, Arena etc)

Not quite sure about transport because I think there should be a Bristol one, but there's also a southern England thread for transport which strikes me as too large an area.

Also could we get our threads put into a sub forum? It would keep things tidier and easier to follow.

Wow! I go away for a week and the place has gone crazy!

The Non-London South get a long awaited upgrade and with a key stroke our beloved Bristol Thread is opened up to more development fanatics like us!

:banana:

I would go along with Bertyboy and Geoff's respective thoughts on the proposed new threads and keep it broader. Glasfields and Whapping Wharf, although important developments, don’t warrant the scale or status of a individual thread in my view.

Good chat from Pompey77 as well on the new mayor of Bristol. This could lead to some serious back slapping from central Gov going on the patter coming from the Post and Mr Clark MP.

I've not yet created transport or sporting venues threads. TBH, it's probably better to leave the latter in here until there is enough discussion to justify it.

As for transport, I'll leave it to someone with more knowledge/information to kick that off - As far as I can see, it should introduce:
o Electrification
o BTM redevelopment
o Urban rail proposals (including 4-tracking Filton Bank)
o BRT

Wow! I go away for a week and the place has gone crazy!

The Non-London South get a long awaited upgrade and with a key stroke our beloved Bristol Thread is opened up to more development fanatics like us!

:banana:

I would go along with Bertyboy and Geoff's respective thoughts on the proposed new threads and keep it broader. Glasfields and Whapping Wharf, although important developments, don’t warrant the scale or status of a individual thread in my view.

Good chat from Pompey77 as well on the new mayor of Bristol. This could lead to some serious back slapping from central Gov going on the patter coming from the Post and Mr Clark MP.

I'm going to completely go back on what I said.

Having had a first explore outside the Bristol thread and take onboard what the other forums do, perhaps it does may make sense to have threads for all major developments to save time looking through our massive Bristol thread for the desired update on each development? Berty is right there wont be huge action but what action there is, will be easily located and accessible to all and therefore time saving?

I'm going to completely go back on what I said.

Having had a first explore outside the Bristol thread and take onboard what the other forums do, perhaps it does may make sense to have threads for all major developments to save time looking through our massive Bristol thread for the desired update on each development? Berty is right there wont be huge action but what action there is, will be easily located and accessible to all and therefore time saving?

The only problem I see with that is that we don't have the Bristol threads grouped in a subforum. For threads with relatively few updates there is the chance of them getting lost way down umpteen pages judging from the rate at which the ever enthusiastic Shard97 is creating Plymouth threads.

I also think one thread per development is overdoing it a little. Surely the majority of people here are interested in all/most developments in general, and not just one in particular? I kind of liked the buzz of the Bristol thread, though it definitely makes sense to split things up for major developments like Harbourside, Enterprise Zone, etc. I believe lots of little threads would also make it harder for people to keep track who don't frequent the forum regularly, but rely primarily on e-mail notifications to keep up with things.

Er, what are you on about? That makes no sense.

Really? Its quite simple.

This thread "Home Counties and South West" has been put in after I emailed Jan (the guy that runs the forum). I asked for a individual "Bristol" Sub-forum so we can update individual projects separately (via their own thread in our Sub Forum) so it would be easy to get updates on projects going on instead of updates being spread over hundreds of pages as they are at present in our Bristol Tread.

You still with me at this point? Right...

So as mentioned by other members if you start say a Glassfields Thread (new project @ Temple Quay) with in a few days it will end up being at the bottom of a huge pile of other threads (which have nothing to do with Bristol) so you would have to sift through the lot to update your particular project.

Now you add lots of Project threads along with other citys/towns adding threads for their desired projects then you see what I mean about it not really being any different to what we had before.

This is why I was saying it's not worth starting indiviual threads for projects. Just my opinion...

:ohno::ohno::ohno:

Peace Out A town... :)

P.S I will email Jan again and see if we can sort something out! :nuts:

Given you can't tell the difference between a thread and a forum pretty much indicates the standard of your cerebral processing, i.e. you're thick.

Its only worth doing individual threads if we had a "Bristol" thread which Jan (the good old gentleman I emailed to get a singular thread for Bristol) seems to be against and I have no idea why that is.

We already have a Bristol thread. This one. A thread is collection of posts, both of which form the contents of a forum, which is subsequently filled with smaller forums known as sub forums which focus on more 'specific' or less general subjects in which people create threads which people respond to via posts.

You still with me at this point? Right.

They're still very much working on this forum and there's a bloody suggestions thread at the top of this sub-forum, so cool it and quit being moronic and irritating. Or better yet, don't like it? don't post. :okay:

Re: Glassfields et al. The issues I mentioned are irrespective of whether Bristol had it's own sub-forum or if it was sharing a bigger one.



This thread "Home Counties and South West" has been put in after I emailed Jan (the guy that runs the forum). I asked for a individual "Bristol" Sub-forum so we can update individual projects separately (via their own thread in our Sub Forum) so it would be easy to get updates on projects going on instead of updates being spread over hundreds of pages as they are at present in our Bristol Tread.


You are aware you weren't soley responsible for this new sub-forum existing, right?

Now now children. This is an exciting time in the history of bristol forum. Dont ruin it.
There has been lobbying from a number of people from different regions over a number of years to make this happen. Let's prove we're mature enough to justify it.

Given you only just registered this month, you're the only one who needs to prove anything. So shut up. [/bitchmodeover]

Yes yes not mature and all that :blahblah:. Alright, it's out of my system now.

What's rattled your cage, helium?;-)

Big earthquake.

http://i.imgur.com/56FU6.gif

Chill out guys.

The Subforum was a long time coming, we all know that. But we have it now, let's not let it drop into petty squabling just yet ;)

Just a general FYI - the South Glos core strategy Examination in Public has started today. It's not terribly exciting (it's South Glos!), but will have a bearing on development in the North Fringe up to 2026.

Given you only just registered this month, you're the only one who needs to prove anything. So shut up. [/bitchmodeover]

Yes yes not mature and all that :blahblah:. Alright, it's out of my system now.

^^^^^^

:ohno::ohno::ohno: LOL!!!

I can't believe you don't get it and you concentrating on definitions of words being used in the wrong context etc shows you really are not on the same page especially as you know what I am referring to!

No point in arguing when you really don't get it so I will do what I was told to do when I am communicating with small children!!! NOD AND AGREE!

I agree with you Delirium, you are right and thank you for correcting me and making me aware that opinions are not a right! :lol:

Government asked for £18m for new M49 junction

The government has been asked for £18m to fund a new junction on the M49 near Bristol.

South Gloucestershire Council and the Local Enterprise Partnership say the new junction will improve access to the Avonmouth area.

The junction was set out in South Gloucestershire Council's draft Core Strategy.

The two organisations believe it would help to open up more than 1,000 acres of land for development.

Really? Its quite simple.

This thread "Home Counties and South West" has been put in after I emailed Jan (the guy that runs the forum). I asked for a individual "Bristol" Sub-forum so we can update individual projects separately (via their own thread in our Sub Forum) so it would be easy to get updates on projects going on instead of updates being spread over hundreds of pages as they are at present in our Bristol Tread.

You still with me at this point? Right...

So as mentioned by other members if you start say a Glassfields Thread (new project @ Temple Quay) with in a few days it will end up being at the bottom of a huge pile of other threads (which have nothing to do with Bristol) so you would have to sift through the lot to update your particular project.

Now you add lots of Project threads along with other citys/towns adding threads for their desired projects then you see what I mean about it not really being any different to what we had before.

This is why I was saying it's not worth starting indiviual threads for projects. Just my opinion...

:ohno::ohno::ohno:

Peace Out A town... :)

P.S I will email Jan again and see if we can sort something out! :nuts:

This forum is not a response to your email. It has been in planning for a while and it is to cover the whole of the South (excluding London).

Just a general FYI - the South Glos core strategy Examination in Public has started today. It's not terribly exciting (it's South Glos!), but will have a bearing on development in the North Fringe up to 2026.

Any clue as to what's being discussed?

I'm guessing we might see a document released similar to this:

https://consultations.southglos.gov.uk/consult.ti/CoreStrategy/viewCompoundDoc?docid=441908&sessionid=&voteid=&partId=444500



I agree with you Delirium, you are right and thank you for correcting me and making me aware that opinions are not a right! :lol:

^^The only part of your post that was agreeable, correct and made any sense :okay:.

Any clue as to what's being discussed?

Everything that SGC put into the Core Strategy! I was there this morning for the Legal session - mostly just developer's lawyers and advocacy groups arguing that the document is sound/unsound. Discussions mostly about housing in Thornbury, Yate, Filton.

Would our new "Mayor" have any power or say at all over new developments i.e how tall or dense they are etc etc?

Although we still don't know what powers the mayor will have I'd expect they'll have a big influence on planning policy.

Don't know about that, isn't that sort of thing ultimately determined by the various local planning policies and masterplans for the area in question, what English Heritage & co. will allow, and what's financially viable? In the centre, you need density in order to make it work anyway, but not too much (too high), or you won't be able to sell all that space.

The only problem I see with that is that we don't have the Bristol threads grouped in a subforum. For threads with relatively few updates there is the chance of them getting lost way down umpteen pages judging from the rate at which the ever enthusiastic Shard97 is creating Plymouth threads.

Good point, makes sense for the future as more threads are added.

I also think one thread per development is overdoing it a little. Surely the majority of people here are interested in all/most developments in general, and not just one in particular? I kind of liked the buzz of the Bristol thread, though it definitely makes sense to split things up for major developments like Harbourside, Enterprise Zone, etc. I believe lots of little threads would also make it harder for people to keep track who don't frequent the forum regularly, but rely primarily on e-mail notifications to keep up with things.

Fair point with the email notifications TPM.

I wouldn’t want our Bristol thread to be watered down in any way. It may enhance the flow of the forum by grouping developments together more, that was all I thought and it looks like we are doing just that with Bertyboy and the harbourside, Enterprise Zone and Finzel's Reach threads. Awesome picture on the Brewery by the way!

I would still probably vote yes to a Sporting and Cultural thread to house all the stadium projects and also one for the Bristol Mayor Elections as we get to grips with the new post's powers and what effect it could have…

In town yesterday, and saw some work taking place on some of buildings in the north western corner of Queen Square. There were some large but vague hoardings advertising the development, turns out it's quite a smart thing. I believe we saw the planning app are fair while a go. I like it.

http://66queensquare.com/

http://66queensquare.com/images.html

Speaking of Queen square, the English language college has definitely added an extra kick of 'vibrancy' down there with all the students it's brought.

In town yesterday, and saw some work taking place on some of buildings in the north western corner of Queen Square. There were some large but vague hoardings advertising the development, turns out it's quite a smart thing. I believe we saw the planning app are fair while a go. I like it.

http://66queensquare.com/

http://66queensquare.com/images.html

Speaking of Queen square, the English language college has definitely added an extra kick of 'vibrancy' down there with all the students it's brought.

Very very nice, quality development Delirium. This is spot on and must be very attractive to potential occupiers as it offers modern open plan space right next to Queens Square! Very very good.

I don't know if it's been mentioned on here but UWE are putting together more plans for the campus which I suspect are to tie in with the stadium development. Buses and taxis are to be moved to the road going between the old HP estate and the current campus and a large new student union and admin office is to be built in that area as well - pretty much attached to the stadium almost.

This could mean demolition of the existing student union block in the future (which would be a very good move - it looks horrific inside and out).

Everything that SGC put into the Core Strategy! I was there this morning for the Legal session - mostly just developer's lawyers and advocacy groups arguing that the document is sound/unsound. Discussions mostly about housing in Thornbury, Yate, Filton.

Was the Bert I heard speaking eloquently in defence of the airfield on Radio Bristol this morning, your good self?

Was the Bert I heard speaking eloquently in defence of the airfield on Radio Bristol this morning, your good self?

It was the self same! :lol:

I get a mention in the Bristol Post as well....
http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Filton-Airfield-longer-viable-BAE-tells-inquiry/story-16432237-detail/story.html

=Delirium;92575524]In town yesterday, and saw some work taking place on some of buildings in the north western corner of Queen Square. There were some large but vague hoardings advertising the development, turns out it's quite a smart thing. I believe we saw the planning app are fair while a go. I like it.

http://66queensquare.com/

[url]http://66queensquare.com/images.html[/url

I have a bit of inside information on this. Nothing too exciting but I had a beer with the office agent asked to pitch for this instruction, he met the two owners of Titan Investments, the developer behind this project. Unfortunately they are not going to start on site until they have a pre let for roughly half the space, about 30,000 sq ft. Interestingly they will also develop a self-contained unit somewhere in the plans, which they may sell off as residential or lease it with the office as flats specifically for the office workers or visiting clients, which is something new I thought.

The Metro seems to be getting a bit serious. I wonder if this can now actually happen?

I don't understand though how the Metro is going to cost £100 million and the BRT Scheme has cost (unless I'm mistaken) £350 million (even more than that as I do remember a article a while ago about the rising costs of the BRT).

Also if the Metro goes ahead and by 2015 (only 3 years time) we have part (Phase 1) of what will be a Greater Bristol Metro then isn't the BRT a total waste of money. How can BCC (and other counties) justify funding for 2 Major forms of Mass Transit when they will be competing against each other as they are essentially doing the same thing.

The Metro seems to be getting a bit serious. I wonder if this can now actually happen?

My impression was that this is still just lobbying at this point, in order to get funding for important infrastructure bits included as part of the GWML franchise / HLOS. I skimmed through the agenda (http://www.westofengland.org/meetings/joint-transport-executive-committee/19-june-2012) of the 19 June 2012 meeting of the West of England Partnership Joint Transport Executive Committee, and it makes for much more sober reading. For example, in there it says somewhere that while it was hoped by local authorities that provision of the first phase of the Bristol Metro scheme would be included as requirement in the franchise, "it is the view of the DfT that this will now not be the case" (i.e. it would be a costed option instead).


I don't understand though how the Metro is going to cost £100 million and the BRT Scheme has cost (unless I'm mistaken) £350 million (even more than that as I do remember a article a while ago about the rising costs of the BRT).

Also if the Metro goes ahead and by 2015 (only 3 years time) we have part (Phase 1) of what will be a Greater Bristol Metro then isn't the BRT a total waste of money. How can BCC (and other counties) justify funding for 2 Major forms of Mass Transit when they will be competing against each other as they are essentially doing the same thing.


I don't think they are essentially doing the same thing, or competing against each other (they are certainly not competing against each other for funding, there was never the option to divert the BRT money from the government towards rail schemes, as I understand it).

Heavy rail doesn't go into the city centre (no, a station at M-Shed would not be sufficient to cover the city centre).

BRT does cover the city centre nicely, and also connects Temple Meads to the city centre, and of course some areas that are not too well served by rail (e.g. Hengrove, though of course you could also run busses to Parson St. or so).

I think you need both to make even a tiny dent in Bristol's transport malaise. And even if we get a basic first phase Bristol Metro, let's remember that it will still be rather basic, with one train every 30 minutes or so.

BRT may still be a giant waste of money, but then for other reasons ;)

The Metro seems to be getting a bit serious. I wonder if this can now actually happen?

I don't understand though how the Metro is going to cost £100 million and the BRT Scheme has cost (unless I'm mistaken) £350 million (even more than that as I do remember a article a while ago about the rising costs of the BRT).

Also if the Metro goes ahead and by 2015 (only 3 years time) we have part (Phase 1) of what will be a Greater Bristol Metro then isn't the BRT a total waste of money. How can BCC (and other counties) justify funding for 2 Major forms of Mass Transit when they will be competing against each other as they are essentially doing the same thing.

They wouldn't compete. The BRT is a high-frequency service which will serve different areas and is a cross-city end-to-end, whereas the the Bristol Metro would be a heavy rail system using the existing stations (with perhaps one or two new ones) providing more frequent commuter services. It would incorporate:
o To the south,
services between BTM & Portishead via Bedminster and Pill.
o To the north,
services between BTM & Yate via BPW (with a possible extension to Thornbury)
services around the Clifton loop via Avonmouth to Severn Beach
a loop service from BTM, up to Filton Abbeywood then via the Hallen loop (serving Brentry and Henbury) then back through Avonmouth and the Clifton loop.
It's only about 20 stations in total.

That seems a pretty good arrangement Berty.

Amen. Transport alone will potentially cost hundreds of millions. It is hugely important in the shaping of the city and surrounds, is ignored by many, and divides communities. It is also a never-ending evolutionary system with large impacts on everything it touches and doesn't touch, and will generate much banter and discussion, along with pictures. If you don't agree, look at the Manchester Metrolink Extension thread, but I believe it thoroughly merits its own thread.

Temple Quarter, including the refurbed Temple Meads and the enterprise zone, should become a living document, showing the transformation of one of the gateways to Bristol, although could end up as somewhere to bemoan yet another missed opportunity in the land of procrastination and prevarication that is found behind the doors of the council house. A dedicated thread would avoid losing sight of some of the other smaller projects, although there will be some crossover.

And Bertyboy deserves his own thread, because of his indefatigable opposition to the closure of the best runway (and my own favourite airfield) in the West of England. Plus an OBE. Or knighthood if he succeeds.

For example, in there it says somewhere that while it was hoped by local authorities that provision of the first phase of the Bristol Metro scheme would be included as requirement in the franchise, "it is the view of the DfT that this will now not be the case" (i.e. it would be a costed option instead).

I thought HLOS was extra cash for costed projects that catch the government's eye? I don't think that the franchisee could ever be required to pony up for such a big infrastructure program as four-tracking Filton Bank. Without that, though, rail travel in Bristol, other than to London, will go backwards. Filton Bank is already a bottleneck. It will soon have 2 trains per hour to London via Parkway, electric trains from all over heading to the new service yard at Filton, more freight ex-Portbury , plus whatever turns south from the huge new deepwater port at Avonmouth when it opens. Without four-track, I can see us having spanky new electric trains to London, but losing most of the local gains.


Also if the Metro goes ahead and by 2015 (only 3 years time) we have part (Phase 1) of what will be a Greater Bristol Metro then isn't the BRT a total waste of money. How can BCC (and other counties) justify funding for 2 Major forms of Mass Transit when they will be competing against each other as they are essentially doing the same thing.

(My emphasis above) Or what!!!

Since the day I saw the first mock-up picture of the Dan Dare Pilot of the Future superbus outside the Arnolfini (which will bear no likeness to what we end up with IMHO), I have been totally against this utter folly. It will set any chance of decent public transport back bey decades. It is eye-wateringly expensive for the alleged benefits it will provide, and will inconvenience more people than it could possibly help. I read the proofs of evidence for the PI currently in session. Those by the objectors seem to me to be well worked through, and thoroughly researched. The councils' case by contrast is flimsy and not well thought out, with the working for the benefits seemingly done to justify the project, rather than choose the best solution. Look at the StopBRT2 website here (http://stopbrt2.org.uk/), and you will find links to the planning inspectorate site for the proofs. From what I have heard of the inquiry so far, the inspector is taking his job seriously - walking the route, watching various points for himself, hiring a bike, riding the Harbour Railway, and so on.

It may be that he agrees with Cuebix and myself. The northern fringe part is the only one that makes sense, and that will die when (sorry Bertyboy, I mean If) SG make reopening the Henbury line with a spur to the enlrged Cribbs shops a condition of building 5000 homes on Filton Airfield. I worry that the councils will go all lukewarm on reopening Portishead rail when they realise how many of the Ashton Vale park and ride passengers will get the train rather than driving to Ashton then getting the BRT. And the South Bristol Link will just open Hartcliffe Way to more cars. [/rant over]

I am considering paying Brizzle a visit next week. Looking at cheapo hotels now, anyone know anything under £30?

Actually, I see having both the BRT and Rail metro would be a win win.

Also, this news is a few months old, but appears to have slipped the net:

Plans for 'mini' expansion at the Mall Cribbs', have been approved:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-17456281

"An extra 2,000 sq m will be added through the extension which centre managers said will help create a new "mini anchor store".

I am considering paying Brizzle a visit next week. Looking at cheapo hotels now, anyone know anything under £30?

There's always the YHA or the Bristol Backpackers hostel, dunno if that would be your thing though... :shifty:

It may be that he agrees with Cuebix and myself. The northern fringe part is the only one that makes sense, and that will die when (sorry Bertyboy, I mean If) SG make reopening the Henbury line with a spur to the enlrged Cribbs shops a condition of building 5000 homes on Filton Airfield. I worry that the councils will go all lukewarm on reopening Portishead rail when they realise how many of the Ashton Vale park and ride passengers will get the train rather than driving to Ashton then getting the BRT. And the South Bristol Link will just open Hartcliffe Way to more cars. [/rant over]

I think the North Fringe route will survive - Hengrove, Bradley Stoke and Emersons Green are some way from exisiting or proposed stations. The Ashton Vale route was designed to serve a now scrapped urban extension of 10,000 homes at Long Ashton and is a ruinously expensive way of servicing a park and ride and a proposed football stadium. What happens if an inspector says the whole Ashton Vale site meets Town Green criteria? Can the council compulsorily purchase a strip of Town Green to run a busway through it, or do they have to alter the route to skirt it?

And Bertyboy deserves his own thread, because of his indefatigable opposition to the closure of the best runway (and my own favourite airfield) in the West of England. Plus an OBE. Or knighthood if he succeeds.


Lol. Thanks, but I can't claim personal credit for the work Save Filton Airfield does (I'm just the chairman-cum-researcher)!

On the Bristol Metro issue, I think it would be more a consolidation of services on the existing line, with electrification. I think a new bridge at Stapleton Rd., and four-tracking Filton Bank would be a necessity rather than an option. Given that, I think something like this would be the initial phase of the network (with Thornbury as an option):

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-2b5aljUHV7o/T-jrxfS0ZUI/AAAAAAAAAlY/eUNaBey6duI/s800/BristolMetro.jpg

Bertyboy, you are too modest! I can see it now: "Arise, Sir Bertyboy of ---er, where was it again? I also give you freedom to graze your livestock on the town green, and if you can find a virgin, let me know".

The Ashton Vale route was designed to serve a now scrapped urban extension of 10,000 homes at Long Ashton and is a ruinously expensive way of servicing a park and ride and a proposed football stadium. What happens if an inspector says the whole Ashton Vale site meets Town Green criteria? Can the council compulsorily purchase a strip of Town Green to run a busway through it, or do they have to alter the route to skirt it?

Aha! There is a variation of the Janken game! For "Rock-Scissors-Paper", read "Football ground-Town Green-Bus Rabid Transit route". It seems the BRT option trumps everything, and will be able to machete its way through to nowhere anyone really wants to go, without mercy! As a vanity project, this is a real golden dog turd. As a demonstration of how not to do joined-up thinking, it has no peer.

On the subject of inspectors, I wonder what would happen were the current one decide to agree with the protesters that the benefits are at best inflated, and at worst invented, and that the harm caused would be too great?

See, ironically they have to push this through to prove to the government that they're actually able to deliver stuff these days, and to prove that they can be trusted to deliver on things like the Metro.

Guys I'm not sure if this post will contravene any general principles but I've been in Bristol a year and need a new flat. There seem to be a few places up for rent around City road in St Pauls.

I know ST Pauls has a dodgy reputation but is Western part of it near Broadmead gentrified now and therefore alright/safe?

Any particular reason why st pauls?

It's all relative. one mans 'safe' is not the same as anothers.
I had friends who lived in that part of st pauls around ten years ago, whom I visited regularly (and quite often rode my bmx home from there in the early hours) and it was fairly 'safe' but you had to have your wits about you.
I wouldn't use the word gentrified, but it certainly isn't the bronx down there..

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-18605988

The Redcliffe Wharf site, which has laid dormant for 25 years and is owned by Bristol City Council has choosen the same developer Complex Development Projects reconfirmed this week. Are the plans the same? A boat house, cafe, small retail ground floor element and residential above with some offices...?

Any particular reason why st pauls?

It's all relative. one mans 'safe' is not the same as anothers.
I had friends who lived in that part of st pauls around ten years ago, whom I visited regularly (and quite often rode my bmx home from there in the early hours) and it was fairly 'safe' but you had to have your wits about you.
I wouldn't use the word gentrified, but it certainly isn't the bronx down there..

I want to be able to walk to work in the centre + be relatively close to mates living in the centre and Clifton. I've got pretty used to being carefree in Clifton but having said that being from Swansea originally it should be ok, it seems there are a number of new flats in this area up for rent.

Some landlords are absolutely taking the mickey though it seems, bedsits and unfurnished places going for 600 - 700 per month!!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-18605988

The Redcliffe Wharf site, which has laid dormant for 25 years and is owned by Bristol City Council has choosen the same developer Complex Development Projects reconfirmed this week. Are the plans the same? A boat house, cafe, small retail ground floor element and residential above with some offices...?

The plans are different from the original developers'. "The proposed scheme includes the restoration of two derelict buildings on the site and would include new offices, two restaurants, 14 residential properties and a mix of small café, retail or workshop units."

Some landlords are absolutely taking the mickey though it seems, bedsits and unfurnished places going for 600 - 700 per month!!

As you probably know Bristol isn't the cheapest of cities even during our "Recession" however you said it. The are GOING for £600/£700 pcm which means that's the current rate they actually able to achieve. If you want cheaper maybe go for something a little further out from centre.

I have a friend who is paying £800 pcm for a unfurnished bedsit just off Sussex Place. I was shocked when I saw the size of the place, its so small. I did hear the rents are jumping quite a lot especially at the moment. :nuts:

Jeez. That's London prices.

Jeez. That's London prices.

Clifton has always been on a par with much of London for rents and house prices. Surprised St. Paul's would be though. I know it's slowly getting gentrified, but it's still not somewhere I'd want to live.

It takes a certain level of stupidity for someone to pay £800 for a bedsit in St Pauls. You could live in a decent flat in Clifton for less than that.

Guys I'm not sure if this post will contravene any general principles but I've been in Bristol a year and need a new flat. There seem to be a few places up for rent around City road in St Pauls.

I know ST Pauls has a dodgy reputation but is Western part of it near Broadmead gentrified now and therefore alright/safe?

I work in St Pauls, without fear. "Gentrified" may be overstating the case, and there are a few streets I would not like to live in, but spend an hour in the road you are thinking of, and see what you make of it. There are some nice buildings and nice people living in them, although I do get asked at 7.30am occasionally if I am looking for "business".

£800 pcm for a bedsit, though, is a different sort of robbery. That is crazy money - you will find far cheaper.

The plans are different from the original developers'. "The proposed scheme includes the restoration of two derelict buildings on the site and would include new offices, two restaurants, 14 residential properties and a mix of small café, retail or workshop units."

Damn - I was just waiting until I won (very) big on the lottery to swoop in there and redevelop that site myself as some sort of 'China Town' for Bristol. I thought a 'China Quay' would fit in well to the City as Bristol doesn't really have that at the moment - couple of restaurants - maybe a floating one, and a chinese supermarket etc.

Damn - I was just waiting until I won (very) big on the lottery to swoop in there and redevelop that site myself as some sort of 'China Town' for Bristol. I thought a 'China Quay' would fit in well to the City as Bristol doesn't really have that at the moment - couple of restaurants - maybe a floating one, and a chinese supermarket etc.

:okay: Like that idea :okay:

Damn - I was just waiting until I won (very) big on the lottery to swoop in there and redevelop that site myself as some sort of 'China Town' for Bristol. I thought a 'China Quay' would fit in well to the City as Bristol doesn't really have that at the moment - couple of restaurants - maybe a floating one, and a chinese supermarket etc.

Bristol doesn't have a Chinese supermarket? News to me, and the owners of Wai Yee Hong, Kin Yip Hon, Teoh's, Wan Yan Hong, Xin He, and that little one just up from the Arches in Gloucester Road. I would say that other Chinese supermarkets are available, but I'm not sure.

I imagine Dronks was referring to a chinatown rather than supermarkets.

Not sure establishing a chinatown in Bristol would work in reality, but despite what's there already (St Nicks), plus the secondary centres such as Gloucester Rd, the city could do with a 'better' nodal point for the different cultures in this city, in terms of congregating, mingling and showcasing (WTFTM). At least in the centre. Look at Birmingham's complex of markets next to the bullring to see what I mean.

Bristol doesn't have a Chinese supermarket? News to me, and the owners of Wai Yee Hong, Kin Yip Hon, Teoh's, Wan Yan Hong, Xin He, and that little one just up from the Arches in Gloucester Road. I would say that other Chinese supermarkets are available, but I'm not sure.

Bristol does have a Chinese supermarket it is in Eastville near ikea with a big Chinese resturant above.

Seems to be a lot of people confusing each other about chinese supermarkets on here!

News on The Mall-Cribbs expanding by up to two thirds.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-18577646

The expansion would place The Mall as the fourth/fifth largest mall in the UK. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_largest_shopping_centres_in_the_United_Kingdom_by_size

Thoughts?

Though I'm hardly in favour of a wholesale expansion of 'Cribbs', part of me hopes that this news will keep those in charge of running Cabot and Broadmead on their toes and from resting on their laurels. It's not 1997, Broadmead is a much stronger position, hell so are the likes of Gliucester Rd. As for Weston... meh they've had decades to sort themselves out.

^^ Big edit!!

:bowtie:

Six Biggest English Cities Get Extra Powers and Cash - Bristol to get more investment from central government...!!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-18709029

Not direct new investment but 10 yrs transport funding and ability to borrow up to £1 billion through TIF according to; http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/pound-1billion-revolution/story-16481396-detail/story.html

Pretty exciting stuff nonetheless, but i thought the city deal for Bristol was going to be negotiated by the newly elected mayor? Seems as if its done...

This is big, big news :) Bristol has needed this sort of wide area control over transport for ages.

Hopefully, they'll have as much vision as TfGM do....

Are they totally free to spend that amount on whatever transport schemes they come up with? Besides Bristol Metro and some road upgrades what else is in the pipeline?

Are they totally free to spend that amount on whatever transport schemes they come up with? Besides Bristol Metro and some road upgrades what else is in the pipeline?

Hopefully an early announcement of the scrapping of the Bus Rabid Transit scheme in favour of something rail based and worthwhile.

I read the BEP story more than once before I realised that we get some new committees, rather than a big fat cheque. We get to keep the business rates from the circus tent and allotments, plus the empty shell of the Royal Mail building, that currently form the Enterprise Zone. The city will really only have big bucks to play with once the EZ gets off the ground.

I hope the 10 years' transport spend isn't just money that would come this way in any case, but I hope some good quality schemes come out of it quickly. Hopefully, there will still be cash to pay for the four-tracking to Filton Bank, plus the Portishead line, from the HLOS, not local funds.

This could be the making of a great city, and not forgetting the surrounding areas, or it could mean yet more bus lanes and BRT routes to nowhere anyone wants to go, all paid for by saddling us with a billion quid mortgage. Personally, I am nervous of having politicians in charge, given the dismal track record of Bristol CC especially.

Hopefully an early announcement of the scrapping of the Bus Rabid Transit scheme in favour of something rail based and worthwhile.

Rail = Expensive. If they wanted a decent, clean transit network, what is wrong with trolley buses? I'd like to see the BRT scheme done with electricity, not diesel buses. The savings in the long-run would be massive.

Rail = Expensive. If they wanted a decent, clean transit network, what is wrong with trolley buses? I'd like to see the BRT scheme done with electricity, not diesel buses. The savings in the long-run would be massive.

I guess the straightforward answer is that they still need guiding, and use the same road as other traffic. Trams make their own "bus lanes". Plus steel wheel on steel rail reduces friction compared to rubber, cutting costs overall. Trolley buses need a double overhead line, versus one for trams, and rail future-proofs the route for when the tram-train trials are finished, and the model becomes viable throughout the UK.

I agree that electricity is the ideal propulsion, and will lead to overall savings compared to diesel, or the as yet unbuilt, untried, untested, unavailable, unlikely outside of Narnia, bio diesel bus promised in the glossy brochures by our current leaders.

The Stop BRT2 campaign website can be found here (http://stopbrt2.org.uk/). They hired a transport consultant to examine the case for BRT from near Temple Meads to Ashton Vale, and his evidence to the inquiry is included in here. It makes for fascinating reading, and rather blows the whole business case for BRT2 out of the water. It would be an act of supreme bravery, but I hope the inspector turns the scheme down flat.

I should stop being so bl**dy cynical!
THE £100-million Bristol Metro train network which will bring massive improvements to local railways is to go ahead with the first services running by 2016.

It comes as a result of the City Deal agreed between local council and the Government which was announced yesterday by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg. It will mean the line to Portishead being re-opened and trains running to the town again within four years. The Henbury line will also re-open in 2018 as part of the plans. The list of new and re-opened stations include:
​

Coming soon
• • • •



â—� Ashton Gate

â—� Horfield

â—� Ashley Hill

â—� Saltford

â—� and Henbury

They will form part of a local rail network that supporters hope will see trains running every half an hour.

The dramatic improvements are part of the £1 billion deal, which the Post revealed yesterday, and which was confirmed by treasury minister Danny Alexander on a visit to Bristol.

The City Deal has been agreed between Westminster and councils in Bristol and the surrounding area which promises to revolutionise the way the area is run.

The plans also include the re-opening of the so-called Henbury Loop in north Bristol.

The fine details of the deal, which will see money raised in parts of the city through business rates kept in Bristol, were still being worked on as late as Wednesday night.

Mr Alexander claimed the deal represents a revolution in the way the city is run and financed and will see power shifted back from Westminster to the West Country.

The minister said: "Local leaders and strong leadership are essential to the future prosperity of Britain's cities. These new powers will allow Bristol and the surrounding area to decide its own priorities for local public transport and flexibility on skills training – benefiting both employers and young people.

"By allowing Bristol to keep the business rates growth in its Enterprise Areas, this deal will support up to £1 billion of investment locally.

"This unique deal will hugely benefit ordinary people and businesses in Bristol. It also marks an important step in Government's commitment to decentralise power and re-balance local economies."

The Enterprise Zone set up around Temple Meads station is set to be at the centre of economic growth for the city. All the money raised in the area in business rates will be kept in the city to fund major public projects and improvements to the road network in the city centre.

Talks are taking place to bring the BBC to the Enterprise Zone and to build a 12,000-seat indoor arena on vacant land close to the station.

Around £500 million would be raised but the four local authorities in the region have been given permission to raise loans against the expected revenue with immediate effect.

Mr Alexander believes the City Deal and Bristol's decision to opt for an elected mayor will give it a major advantage over other regional rivals. He said: "What we are doing is giving Bristol the chance to shape its own destiny, and an elected mayor will certainly help in shaping that process. This is a deal and of course we expect something in return in terms of jobs and economic growth but what we are doing is putting the building blocks in place for the future of Bristol and the region."

The deal has seen Bristol council working alongside North Somer- set, South Gloucester- shire and Bath and North East Somerset councils. There are also plans to create a new public body or company to take control of transport across the Bristol region.

The Local Enterprise Partnership, the organisation which replaced the South West Regional Development Agency, has played a key role in the negotiations.

Colin Skellet, the chairman of the organisation, said: "I think this is great for Bristol and the surrounding area and has come after a lot of negotiations. This is the first time the benefits of economic growth will be ploughed straight back into the city rather than being redistributed elsewhere."

He added: "This announcement is a massive vote of confidence from Government in our region's businesses to drive growth and create jobs. It is also an excellent example of what can be achieved by the four local authorities and business working together so effectively. This is a deal for hi-tech growth that builds on the West of England's strengths in engineering, the digital and creative sectors. It gives us unprecedented input into the skills training of our young people to ensure we're meeting the future needs of businesses across the city and region."

Bristol City Council leader Simon Cook said: "The package represents a historic devolution of powers from Whitehall that we have long argued for. It is very good news that business rates will be back in local hands and that we will be able to borrow against those revenues to invest in development. For the first time we'll have the ability to drive our own economic strategy and make the much-needed investment in our infrastructure, in particular in our rail system which is in urgent need of more capacity."

Business leaders also welcomed the announcement. Michael Bothamley, president of Bristol Chamber of Commerce, said: "This is fantastic news, it provides a huge boost for business and our wider community and will help stimulate investor confidence in this area. Investment on this scale into our local rail infrastructure, to boost skills and help create the space for new jobs, are things business has been asking for and are what this deal is all about. It's proof that government is backing what we have all been saying – that this city region will deliver substantial new private sector job growth.

"Very significantly, it provides the financial incentive for our local authorities to further support economic growth and job creation. It's also another success for close partnership working between business and local government through our Local Enterprise Partnership."

Bristol is one of eight cities across the UK to have agreed a deal with the Government.

The city's MPs were broadly supportive although Labour's Kerry McCarthy declined to make a comment.

Charlotte Leslie, Conservative MP for Bristol North West, said the announcement was a "game-changer" for the city. She said: "This is obviously fantastic news. The Government has recognised just how central proper transport infrastructure is to Bristol. It really has been lacking in relation to other cities."

City leaders will need to work with neighbouring local authorities to manage the investment, which ministers said would boost the economy by up to £1 billion.

Kingswood Tory MP Chris Skidmore said: "This is a milestone moment for Bristol and the surrounding region. Never has so much power or funds been given back from Whitehall to the local community.

"This deal is about trusting local businesses and organisations who know how the region should be run best, giving them freedom to decide our city's destiny rather than the old-fashioned top-down 'We know best' approach of the state. This is an exciting time for Bristol."

Bristol West Lib Dem MP Stephen Williams added: "This deal will give local leaders the power and money to grow the Greater Bristol economy and transform our transport. I'm pleased to have helped in the negotiations."

The fine pine print of the package includes:

â—� A new growth incentive and the economic investment fund, which will allow West of England to keep 100 per cent of growth in business rates over 25 years to invest in projects, allowing authorities to deliver an investment programme worth £1 billion over 30 years.

â—� Ten years of major funding allocation for the Greater Bristol Metro; flexible delivery for the Bus Rapid Transit Network which will allow savings to be recycled locally; and new powers over rail planning and delivery.

â—� A Public Property Board will manage up to £1 billion of city council assets and an estimated 180 land and property assets to unlock more land for economic growth or housing and to lever in additional investment.

â—� A city growth hub with up to £2.25 million of government funding which will provide additional support to inward investors. This will be based in the Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone and will work closely with UK Trade and Investment.

â—� The business community and local enterprise partnership will have more influence in skills provision in the city region, in particular the £114 million Skills Funding Agency funding for Further Education colleges for post-16 provision, to help capture employer demand.

Bristol Evening Post (http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/100-million-Bristol-Metro-train-network-2016/story-16492523-detail/story.html) today.

I wonder if this bit

"Ten years of major funding allocation for the Greater Bristol Metro; flexible delivery for the Bus Rapid Transit Network which will allow savings to be recycled locally; and new powers over rail planning and delivery"

allows you to keep the North Fringe - Hengrove route (BRT 3), but scrap the Ashton Vale bit and spend the money saved on the rail network? Probably not, but it's a nice thought.

I wonder if this bit

"Ten years of major funding allocation for the Greater Bristol Metro; flexible delivery for the Bus Rapid Transit Network which will allow savings to be recycled locally; and new powers over rail planning and delivery"

allows you to keep the North Fringe - Hengrove route (BRT 3), but scrap the Ashton Vale bit and spend the money saved on the rail network? Probably not, but it's a nice thought.

I hope so, Geoff. Ironic that I suggested somewhere that the whole thing should be consigned to the "recycling box of history". Needs someone to go to the treasury and ask.

I wonder if this bit

"Ten years of major funding allocation for the Greater Bristol Metro; flexible delivery for the Bus Rapid Transit Network which will allow savings to be recycled locally; and new powers over rail planning and delivery"

allows you to keep the North Fringe - Hengrove route (BRT 3), but scrap the Ashton Vale bit and spend the money saved on the rail network? Probably not, but it's a nice thought.

‘Flexible delivery’ is certainly an interesting choice of words hinting at the possibility of changes to the proposal.

It would be surprising if the bus plans weren't reconsidered in light of the wholly different context in which we find ourselves. I assume that contracts for construction haven't yet been agreed? If the close to £200M of funding were available for any project then I personally would favor a tram route along the Bris/Bath railway path (Im a cyclist, I know this is quite controversial, but simply put this route is just too good not to put to better use) from Warmley via Staple Hill - Fishponds - Temple Meads - Redcliffe Way - Broad Quay - Quay St - Nelson St. This route could be almost entirely segregated making for a fast and reliable connection from a heavily congested part of the city to TM and the city centre.

Having said that the Treasury simply don't work like that & the BRT still has its merits. Even along the Ashton vale route it doesn't really duplicate the new rail services. Temple Meads is after all a long walk from a lot of the city centre (for the few people living around Ashton gate the brt would be far more convenient than the train for the centre, broadmead etc), it will also improve the airport flyer service & access to spike island.

The BRT and metro have the potential to be quite complimentary IMO. There's clearly a big debate over the various merits of bus/BRT/Tbus/tram (and I think we'd all prefer the latter) but if this cheapish option can be built quickly, extended and upgraded when finances allow there's no reason why it won’t be successful.

Top post pompey. I agree entirely, especially about the bris-bath cycle path. It goes literally right under my house, & as a cyclist who uses it myself & loves it, I too see the overwhelming benefits of running vehicular services down there. would be magic. The point the anti group seem to quite conveniently forget is that this is a railway line after all! We wouldn't be riding up & down it were it not built for passenger transportation in the first place.. I see it as a necessary reclamation of passage.

Something such as a viaduct cycle path, similar in appearance to the High Line in NYC, built over the top would be a decent and attractive compromise.

Or they could always build under the cycle path, and create a 'super-tunnel'. Ah dreams...

Cycle path is something likely to come up when the railway to Portishead is rebuilt. Part of the old trackbed near Portbury is used as a cyclepath, and that will have to be closed. It won't cause such outrage as the Bristol to Bath path will, because it has always been a temporary provision, and there is room to divert it, but someone will shout for sure. I agree with Pompey that a tramway from Staple Hill would be a greater benefit, and would move far more people than the cycleway does.
I do not follow the argument about BRT complementing the railway proposal, though. Take away the hype and the glossy pictures, and you have a road-building scheme, and not a very good one at that. It will ruin the Prince Street area, including the swing bridge. It will drive a bus lane through the harbourside, restrict the harbour railway's operations, and wreck the quality of life of the residents of Cumberland Road. With the abandonment of the extra housing towrds Long Ashton, and uncertainty about the foorball ground, it will lead only to a park and ride that isn't fully used now, and will become even quieter once the good people of Portishead and Pill can catch the train to Bristol. There isn't an operator yet who will sign up to run the eco-buses that don't yet exist along it. Ordinary buses such as those running from Portishead and Weston won't be "green" enough to use it. Everyone can see this, except for the promoters of this green-white elephant. Even the supporters recognise it as second-best.

Cycle path is something likely to come up when the railway to Portishead is rebuilt. Part of the old trackbed near Portbury is used as a cyclepath, and that will have to be closed. It won't cause such outrage as the Bristol to Bath path will, because it has always been a temporary provision, and there is room to divert it, but someone will shout for sure. I agree with Pompey that a tramway from Staple Hill would be a greater benefit, and would move far more people than the cycleway does.
I do not follow the argument about BRT complementing the railway proposal, though. Take away the hype and the glossy pictures, and you have a road-building scheme, and not a very good one at that. It will ruin the Prince Street area, including the swing bridge. It will drive a bus lane through the harbourside, restrict the harbour railway's operations, and wreck the quality of life of the residents of Cumberland Road. With the abandonment of the extra housing towrds Long Ashton, and uncertainty about the foorball ground, it will lead only to a park and ride that isn't fully used now, and will become even quieter once the good people of Portishead and Pill can catch the train to Bristol. There isn't an operator yet who will sign up to run the eco-buses that don't yet exist along it. Ordinary buses such as those running from Portishead and Weston won't be "green" enough to use it. Everyone can see this, except for the promoters of this green-white elephant. Even the supporters recognise it as second-best.

Ditto.


Well, at least we'll have a mayor to complain to, this time around.

A road building scheme? Yes the south Bristol link is considered part of the package but that is the only new bit of road. The rest of the new infrastructure is dedicated bus lanes and junctions...

Also what will it do the Prince st area? I know they plan to return the bridge to two way operation which is unfortunate but if it's bus only it should be fairly quiet.

Yeah but it's the amount of buses per hour. Going be quite disruptive, especially across the museum part. Wish they could route them round the back to the louisiana roundabout and round wapping wharf instead.

Also:
http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Landmark-office-block-set-pound-250K-facelift/story-16514467-detail/story.html

2 fidi grand ain't gonna make much impact at all. Suppose the lower/ground level is in need of some tlc though. Better than a kick in the teeth..

Good point, why do they need to go along the route of the Harbourside railway and not just along Cumberland Rd? Its not exactly congested is it? Would save a lot of money and placate a lot of opposition to re route that section.

On the Colston tower there is a lot they could do with the podium building to improve its appearance but this money clearly isnt close to enough.

Presumably the silver addition to the tower with the clock at the top contains a service riser for the building? Would look a whole lot better without it IMO.

[QUOTE=Delirium;93151536]Ditto.


We should be lobbying Mayoral Candidates to revise this scheme, if Portishead line goes ahead there isnt need for LA park and ride, buses already doing better business between WSM and Bristol (X1).

Having studies the plans as a transport professional, the key linkage between a rapid transit scheme and the Bristol Metro, would be a proper hub interchange at Stapleton Road. Stapleton Road station could be moved closer to M32 and an interchange with Metro, to provide fast links to Broadmead and Centre avoiding Temple Meads. Could also open up regneration opportunities to west of M32 and support Easton. Lawrence Hill also has potential for much denser development, the huge roundabout should be scaled down.

http://img600.imageshack.us/img600/3317/12overview2.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/600/12overview2.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

The last remaining waterfront site in central Bristol is finally to be developed following the selection of Complex Development Projects Ltd (CDP) as the Council’s preferred developer last week.

Redcliffe Wharf, on the main route in from the station, has remained derelict for over 20 years with continual debate over the most suitable development of this sensitive site. CDP specialises in the partnership regeneration of difficult sites and is well suited to bring forward a high quality development with the Council, taking account of the views of local groups.

Speaking about the announcement, Ian Harrabin, CDP’s Managing Director said: “We are delighted at our appointment as this is the jewel in Bristol’s crown. It has a fantastic setting on the Floating Harbour and the location, close to both the station and at the gateway to the city centre, is second to none.”

CDP’s mixed use development proposals include a Grade A 34,000 sq ft office building plus two separate restaurant units, together with a mix of retail/workshop/small office units. In addition, 14 apartments will be created in converted warehouses and new buildings, all having outstanding harbour views. The plans incorporate the redevelopment of two buildings already on the site, one of which was used for the building of The Matthew, John Cabot’s replica sailing ship.

CBRE in Bristol has been appointed as the commercial agent on the scheme and has already secured positive interest from a local brewery for a waterside bar/restaurant unit incorporating a micro brewery plus considerable interest in the office building.

Caroline Mitchell-Sanders, Director for Development and Regeneration at CBRE in Bristol said: “CBRE is delighted to be involved with this high profile project. Redcliffe Wharf is in a great location offering a unique waterside environment of considerable historical importance. The offices will stand above everything else available in the city as the best landmark building, built to very high environmental standards. They are ideal for a single occupier who wants to make a statement in the city. The leisure units in particular offer a great opportunity that will appeal to innovative and entrepreneurial restaurant or café owners.”

CDP plans to start work on the development in 2013

We should be lobbying Mayoral Candidates to revise this scheme, if Portishead line goes ahead there isnt need for LA park and ride, buses already doing better business between WSM and Bristol (X1).



Already am. I am asking them all for their views on it, and will share the answers.



Having studied the plans as a transport professional, the key linkage between a rapid transit scheme and the Bristol Metro, would be a proper hub interchange at Stapleton Road. Stapleton Road station could be moved closer to M32 and an interchange with Metro, to provide fast links to Broadmead and Centre avoiding Temple Meads. Could also open up regneration opportunities to west of M32 and support Easton. Lawrence Hill also has potential for much denser development, the huge roundabout should be scaled down.

I thought Lawrence Hill, being wider with a Showcase bus lane, and not far from the action - so long as you only have to pay once for the journey, of course. That makes sense, as it would ease some of the pressure on Temple Meads. Stapleton Road could be a good alternative to BTM for changing trains, eg from Sea Mills to Abbey Wood, and would also help reduce footfall at BTM.

A road building scheme? Yes the south Bristol link is considered part of the package but that is the only new bit of road. The rest of the new infrastructure is dedicated bus lanes and junctions...

Also what will it do the Prince st area? I know they plan to return the bridge to two way operation which is unfortunate but if it's bus only it should be fairly quiet.

I was talking about the Ashton Vale route, which will see the railway track ripped up and a road laid down. As to the Prince Street area, it isn't just me banging on about it. Check Save Bristol Harbour (http://www.savebristolharbour.org/#item1) for another view. Prince Street Bridge will become bus only, and the cobbles outside the Arnolfini will be replaced by a raised platform and a tarmac surface. With 60 buses an hour whizzing past, the walk around that part of the harbour and down Museum Street behind M Shed is hardly going to be nice. Bristol Civic Society and Sustrans are among the many who raised objections at the planning inquiry. The Statements of Case (http://www.persona.uk.com/ashton/OBJ-SoC_documents.htm)submitted by the objectors make for interesting reading.

Already am. I am asking them all for their views on it, and will share the answers.


Cool. I'm meeting Tim Collins at the weekend, so if you haven't already, I'll try and get some views out of him.

Cool. I'm meeting Tim Collins at the weekend, so if you haven't already, I'll try and get some views out of him.

Tweeted him. Also Abdul Malik, George Ferguson, the Green Party (no name yet) and (via FB) Marvin Rees. Total replies so far: zero. A city awaits.

Before anyone points out the bleedin' obvious, I have no intention of using this thread, or any other for that matter, for political agitation or promotion of any single candidate. I think that it could be of interest to know what the possible effects could be on Bristol's infrastructure. It won't be a topic for debate, at least not in these hallowed pages, just a simple report when I know the answers.

(And tweeted you, too, Bertyboy!)

I was talking about the Ashton Vale route, which will see the railway track ripped up and a road laid down. As to the Prince Street area, it isn't just me banging on about it. Check Save Bristol Harbour (http://www.savebristolharbour.org/#item1) for another view. Prince Street Bridge will become bus only, and the cobbles outside the Arnolfini will be replaced by a raised platform and a tarmac surface. With 60 buses an hour whizzing past, the walk around that part of the harbour and down Museum Street behind M Shed is hardly going to be nice. Bristol Civic Society and Sustrans are among the many who raised objections at the planning inquiry. The Statements of Case (http://www.persona.uk.com/ashton/OBJ-SoC_documents.htm)submitted by the objectors make for interesting reading.

I happen to welcome the fact Prince st bridge will be closed to private vehicles, its just a shame that the dedicated cycle lane will be removed IMO although it is always a little dodgy to use if going south. As I said above I'm not sure why they've chosen to route buses along the harbour railway instead of just using Cumberland Rd.

I happen to welcome the fact Prince st bridge will be closed to private vehicles, its just a shame that the dedicated cycle lane will be removed IMO although it is always a little dodgy to use if going south. As I said above I'm not sure why they've chosen to route buses along the harbour railway instead of just using Cumberland Rd.

I have no problem withclosing it to private vehicles at all. I However, I don't think for the briefest moment that it will be any use as a bus lane. It will change the character of the docks in almost the same way as a motorway would. We were looking forward to a furthering of the cafe culture around those parts. This will wreck the chances of that. A Macdonalds may be the best we can hope for. I fear even for the Buttery, with its fabulous cheese and meat pies. (Other food outllets are available)

I still don't see why the changes to the bridge will make such a dramatic difference to the feel or development of the area, the part of the route along past the Brunel's Buttery undoubtedly will. But the bridge?

Bristol tower to take cue from iconic New York building

Developers want to build showpiece building on Victoria Street that will look similar to the Big Apple’s iconic Flatiron Building

Full story on bristol247.com (http://www.bristol247.com/2012/07/17/bristol-tower-to-take-cue-from-iconic-new-york-building-55104/).


I guess this will replace the awful 33 Victoria Street building?

yep, excellent news that they're marketing this! Suppose they will wait for a pre-let before starting construction.

It's really great site but the red cladding in the renders does nothing for me, makes it look a bit like a data centre, would look much better if it was all glass like Chancery place Manchester.

Still another piece in the Victoria St jigsaw! :)

This is one building I'd like to see built now it's got its planning permission renewed. I think the cladding is meant to be a coppery colour although it's not easy to tell from the picture.

This is one building I'd like to see built now it's got its planning permission renewed. I think the cladding is meant to be a coppery colour although it's not easy to tell from the picture.

I'm with you on that.

Does anyone know what happened to the General Hospital redevelopment btw? Did that ever get planning permission?

Does anyone know what happened to the General Hospital redevelopment btw? Did that ever get planning permission?

Don't think it's reached commitee yet TPM. Looks very promising though, I can't see it being refused.

Does anyone know what happened to the General Hospital redevelopment btw? Did that ever get planning permission?

Did it go in for planning permission yet?

Did it go in for planning permission yet?

Permission applied for, but it's not reached commitee yet. Next couple of months perhaps?

Permission applied for, but it's not reached commitee yet. Next couple of months perhaps?

I believe you are right but I couldn't find anything definitive.


http://img593.imageshack.us/img593/1225/89979384d060ed7ec9e0pro.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/593/89979384d060ed7ec9e0pro.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

There is a newly installed BIG crane at the Cathedral development behind my offices. I saw this on the planning consultants page http://www.csj-planning.co.uk/news.php?id=18&j=9 It's a lovely rework of a beautiful building using modern techniques and sustainable materials. I'm happy for someone to enjoy it, and if that someone is a student, then so be it!

Julie Laming and Jeremy Bladon have secured planning permission and listed building consent for the re-use and additional development at Pro Cathedral, a Grade II listed building, which is on Bristol’s listed building at risk register. The permissions comprise a 229 bed student residential scheme with approximately 500 sq.m of commercial floorspace and associated landscaping, cycle parking, and communal facilities.

This scheme follows the approval and implementation of a residential scheme secured by CSJ Planning in 2006, which is no longer financially viable and this proposal represents the last chance tosecure a viable future for this site. The proposal works with the existing residential permissions with the design, scale of development and landscaping scheme remaining essentially the same as permitted. A number of changes were made to the listed building which resulted in the retention of more of the building’s historic fabric.

This is an ideal location for student accommodation. It is highly sustainable, close to a range of facilities, public transport and most importantly it is within very close proximity of the University of Bristol and the extensive range of academic and social facilities that it provides.

The design team worked closely with Bristol City Council to ensure the delivery of a sustainable, high quality scheme that enhances the listed building and the Clifton and Hotwells Conservation Area.

The proposal provides a robust management system to control student behaviour that works with local residents, it provides 116 cycle parking spaces and, through a negotiated Section 106 Agreement, restricts car ownership car, provides monies for works to Park Place to improve highway circulation, creates five additional car parking spaces for local residents and provides monies for improvements to and maintenance of Park Place and Brandon Hill and the Whiteladies Road showcase bus route.

The scheme also provides a series of sustainable benefits which includes amongst other things the use of green roofs on all the new build elements and the potential use of an air source heating system.

An extensive public consultation exercise, led by the Avril Baker Consultancy, was undertaken prior to the submission of the applications that involved a public exhibition and public drop in session. A further extensive consultation exercise was undertaken by Bristol City Council during the course of the application. The applications secured support from the Clifton and Hotwells Improvement Society, the Council's Conservation Advisory Panel and from the Local Ward Members.

In town yesterday, and saw some work taking place on some of buildings in the north western corner of Queen Square. There were some large but vague hoardings advertising the development, turns out it's quite a smart thing. I believe we saw the planning app are fair while a go. I like it.

http://66queensquare.com/

http://66queensquare.com/images.html

Speaking of Queen square, the English language college has definitely added an extra kick of 'vibrancy' down there with all the students it's brought.

I note all the buildings on that corner of the square are now covered up.
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Q5DkN98_8j8/UBVHCvw0nSI/AAAAAAAAAnE/IPZkEeCnyYs/s800/2012-07-28%252015.53.09.jpg

Also:
http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Landmark-office-block-set-pound-250K-facelift/story-16514467-detail/story.html

2 fidi grand ain't gonna make much impact at all. Suppose the lower/ground level is in need of some tlc though. Better than a kick in the teeth..

Lick of paint.

I guess this will replace the awful 33 Victoria Street building?

I agree with your assessment, tpm. That awful stylised "33" on the front, which I mistook for some badly distorted cladding, must have cost someone his place at design school.

Exactly. Been meaning to comment on that for months myself. How on earth did someone think that was good? You can't even read it against the building - it's a mess.

You can see the marketing suite has been demolished. Perhaps the long awaited bicycle building is coming soon?


http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/7403/photo7yq.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/35/photo7yq.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

I was in the centre today and i noticed a lot of tower cranes in towards st james roundabout anyone know what they're for?

I was in the centre today and i noticed a lot of tower cranes in towards st james roundabout anyone know what they're for?

Would they be the cranes for building the new ward block at the back of the BRI?

Edit: Passed by today, there are two cranes at the BRI and two more on St Michaels Hill on the Life Sciences building site.

You can see the marketing suite has been demolished. Perhaps the long awaited bicycle building is coming soon?


[/URL]

Uploaded with [URL="http://imageshack.us"]ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/35/photo7yq.jpg/)

That's interesting. I wonder what's going there now then? Is it owned by the developers? Any plans mooted?

Just to note that The Fellowship pub on Gloucester Road in Horfield is to become a Tesco Express in November.

It seems to me that Tesco are now directly challenging Co-op's stores now as this one will be more or less next door to it.

Well yes, that's the idea. Eliminate the competition. co-op are trying to attract the same customer and are a weak target.

Is Bristol creating its own currency? Or is it bull?

Yes the bristol pound.
http://bristolpound.org/
http://bristolpound.org/thumb.php?file=/library/press/BP_Specimen_fronts.jpg&sizex=250

That's interesting. I wonder what's going there now then? Is it owned by the developers? Any plans mooted?

The land is still owned by the City Council .... on a 999 year lease to the developer.

There was no cycle / shopmobility facility included in the planning agreement in the end. Therefore if it does get built, bonus.

The land is completely cleared and could be landscaped going on the top soil now installed!

Moving away from the City of Bristol, Portishead will be home to a very interesting restaurant / bar constructed entirely out of shipping containers. At least it’s imaginative. Architects http://www.mackenziewheeler.co.uk came up with the design, which will be mix of glass and steel situation at the marina.

http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Container-excitement-marina-building/story-16654898-detail/story.html

Would they be the cranes for building the new ward block at the back of the BRI?

Edit: Passed by today, there are two cranes at the BRI and two more on St Michaels Hill on the Life Sciences building site.

Not brilliant pics, taken through the wired windows at the back of the Oncology centre:

http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j365/Boyamijealous/2012-08-15101106.jpg

http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j365/Boyamijealous/2012-08-15101058.jpg

but that's what's happening at the BRI.

It's certainly taking shape at the BRI. From Healthcare development to residential, work to begin on former Bristol North Pool site. Taken from a story http://www.insidermedia.com/insider/south-west/75597-work-begin-former-bristol-north-pool-site and positioned half way up Gloucester Road...

Developer Chatsworth Homes is to set to begin work on the redevelopment of the former Bristol North Pool.

The Gloucester Road building project involves the conversion of the former Bristol North Pool into a community Health Centre, pharmacy and hydrotherapy suite together with new housing and a new Bishopston Library.

The project also involves the building of up to 40 new apartments on the current Cheltenham Road Library site.

Kevin Batt, managing director of Chatsworth Homes (Bristol) Ltd said: "It's been a long and hard five years since Chatsworth Homes first became involved as the Preferred Developer.

"The initial planning challenge, the immense changes in the NHS and the worst economic climate for a very long time have all contributed to the delay in getting the project off the ground and I am finally extremely happy to be able to commence works on what will undoubtedly become a new community hub for the people of Bishopston and the Gloucester Road. To see the Bristol North Baths finally brought back into use is absolutely fantastic."

Bristol City Council councillor Guy Poultney, cabinet member for communities, said: "This has been a very complex project with a number of different partners, but it is excellent news that building work is now starting on this exciting development. The benefits for North Bristol will be huge - a new library in a fantastic location, continued community use of the former pool building and new homes.

"At a time when other councils across the country are cutting back their library services, we are investing in our libraries with this new Bishopston library."

The city council's cabinet agreed to fund the development phase of the project last September, working in a financial joint venture with Chatsworth Homes

It would seem that the General Hospital scheme has hit a snag. The planners recommend refusal solely on the grounds of inadequate proposed S106 contributions. The independent financial report suggests that the developers have overpaid for the site and points out that it's not the city council's job to subsidise them. Presumably some sort of compromise will eventually be reached. There are some good illustrations on pages 75-79 of the report.

https://www.bristol.gov.uk/committee/2012/wa/wa001/0829_4-1.pdf

Noticed flats were up for sale at this residential development at the Portishead marina. Nothing amazing but it appears to include a fairly decent massing of ground floor retail units.

http://www.zoopla.co.uk/for-sale/details/17793573?featured=1&utm_content=featured_listing

Not brilliant pics, taken through the wired windows at the back of the Oncology centre:

http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j365/Boyamijealous/2012-08-15101106.jpg

http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j365/Boyamijealous/2012-08-15101058.jpg

but that's what's happening at the BRI.

Charz for the photog's Baij.

Still can never get over how hideous the main building is, it's like they want people to die....

It would seem that the General Hospital scheme has hit a snag. The planners recommend refusal solely on the grounds of inadequate proposed S106 contributions. The independent financial report suggests that the developers have overpaid for the site and points out that it's not the city council's job to subsidise them. Presumably some sort of compromise will eventually be reached. There are some good illustrations on pages 75-79 of the report.

https://www.bristol.gov.uk/committee/2012/wa/wa001/0829_4-1.pdf

That seems like an awful balls-up on C&C's part. Looks like someone has confused acres and hectares when putting in the bid!
The sad thing is that if BCC do (rightly) insist on s.106 obligations and 20% affordable housing, then C&C will value-engineer this to within an inch of its life to try and make some sort of profit.

Charz for the photog's Baij.

Still can never get over how hideous the main building is, it's like they want people to die....

Having spent time as an inmate at BRI, I find it hard to disagree. The Oncology building, by contrast, is much more easy going, and has better food.

Talking of hospitals, the EP is reporting that Southmead Hospital has now been externally completed and the builders are now moving on to fit out the insides of it.

I guess this will replace the awful 33 Victoria Street building?

Its hardly a tower...I wish they would have the courage to put something tall on that site which would act like a cluster with no 1 Redcliffe (cheese grater) tower. I know they're trying to create a more intimate street scape around there, but that seems to be a odds with the way the area is changing due to its proximity to Temple Quay.

Its hardly a tower...I wish they would have the courage to put something tall on that site which would act like a cluster with no 1 Redcliffe (cheese grater) tower. I know they're trying to create a more intimate street scape around there, but that seems to be a odds with the way the area is changing due to its proximity to Temple Quay.

I think Bristol media habitually use 'tower' whenever something has at least four storeys, and 'skyscraper' when it has nine storeys or more ;)

Talking of hospitals, the EP is reporting that Southmead Hospital has now been externally completed and the builders are now moving on to fit out the insides of it.

Some excellent shots of the new super hospital.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-19347244

Flying back from Newcastle last weekend, the plane banked over the city centre to give great views over the whole of Bristol. I could clearly make out Southmead Hosiptal, which was visible even when we passed over keynsham and started the final phase of the decent to Ludgate. It's enourmous!

I think Bristol media habitually use 'tower' whenever something has at least four storeys, and 'skyscraper' when it has nine storeys or more ;)

so provincial ;) hopefully the new mayor will have more persepctive on these things.

Some excellent shots of the new super hospital.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-19347244

Flying back from Newcastle last weekend, the plane banked over the city centre to give great views over the whole of Bristol. I could clearly make out Southmead Hosiptal, which was visible even when we passed over keynsham and started the final phase of the decent to Ludgate. It's enourmous!

Impressive pictures. Theres an opportunity on the 5th, 16th and 25th of october to have a look round the site and at the mock up rooms, not sure if this is open to everyone or just members of the foundation trust, but might be worth a look.